Solar Explorer

SEE THE SUN LIKE NEVER BEFORE!

Join us at the iconic Akaroa Lighthouse for a safe, captivating, and close-up view of our dynamic Sun – an unforgettable daytime astronomical experience.

Discover the Sun's Hidden Wonders, Safely.

  • Photograph of the sun taken with a PST solarscope, showing a bright pinkish red illuminated sphere against a black background.

    UNPARALLELED SAFE OBSERVATION

    Using our specialized solar telescopes, you’ll observe the Sun with absolute safety, revealing sunspots, solar flares, and prominences in breathtaking detail that's impossible to see with the naked eye.

  • Photograph of the sun taken with a Seestar S50 telescope, showing a bright orange sphere against a dark background.

    CAPTURE PROFESSIONAL-QUALITY SUN PHOTOS

    Experience the cutting-edge technology of our ZWO Seestar S50 smart telescope, specially adapted for solar viewing. We'll use this to capture stunning digital images of the Sun during your tour, which you'll receive directly at the end of your experience!

  • Person observing through a yellow telescope mounted on a black stand outdoors.

    TIMED WITH SOLAR MAXIMUM

    You're visiting at a perfect time! We are currently experiencing Solar Maximum, a period of peak solar activity. This means more sunspots and fascinating phenomena are visible, offering an even more spectacular viewing opportunity!

  • A group of five people, including two children, are gathered around a camera on a tripod, smiling and looking at the camera. They are outdoors on a terrace overlooking a body of water with sailing boats, hills, and a partly cloudy sky in the background.

    PERFECT FOR ALL AGES

    Whether you're a budding astronomer, a family looking for an educational and exciting activity, or simply curious about our nearest star, Solar Explorer is designed to be engaging and accessible for everyone.

  • Lighthouse on a rocky cliff next to a body of water, with sailboats and a pier, mountains in the background, and a cloudy sky.

    ICONIC AKAROA LOCATION

    Meet us at the historic Akaroa Lighthouse, offering a picturesque setting for your solar observation experience.

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What to Expect

DURATION

Approximately 30 minutes

WHAT TO BRING

Your smartphone (for photos!), Sun protection (hat, sunglasses, sunscreen), comfortable shoes.

GROUP SIZE

Small groups for a personal experience (Max 8)

IDEAL FOR

Families, curious individuals, photography enthusiasts, or anyone seeking a unique Akaroa activity.

LOCATION

Akaroa Lighthouse 145 Beach Road, Akaroa

PRICE

Child (5 - 15) $15

Adult (16+) $29

Please note that children under 5s join us for free!

Please refer to our Terms and Conditions for further details, including our cancellation policy.

Amazing Feedback from Our Solar Explorers!

  • ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐

    "Great! Everyone should see the sun through a telescope at least once. Luca is a true expert and knows a lot. He patiently explained everything, and it was simply amazing. Thank you!"

    — Terry G.

    Reviewed on Google - April 2024

  • ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐

    “Luca was fantastic! He is very knowledgeable and we learned a lot about the sun. We were able to see some sunspots in the solarscope, and overall had a great time.”

    — Judy P.

    Reviewed on Google - January 2024

  • ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐

    “I never knew you could actually see the sun through a telescope, or that something like this even existed— all thanks to Luca! He was proactive, keeping us informed about the weather conditions and accommodated us in the next slot. His passion for stargazing really shines through, and he provided an experience that rivals the famous stargazing in Lake Tekapo. Whether it’s the Solar Explorer tour or the night stargazing, I highly recommend anyone in and around Akaroa to book these experiences. Luca’s enthusiasm and expertise make all the difference!”

    — Stacey L.

    Reviewed on TripAdvisor - January 2025

  • ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐

    "Incredible experience- a must do if you are in Akaroa

    Incredible unique experience - we are still thinking about it two weeks on.

    Luca was such a delight to talk to. He explained and taught us so much. The views were literally out of this world and the photos we got are a treasure.

    Would highly recommend this unique and incredible activity."

    — Al

    Reviewed on TripAdvisor - March 2025

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Your Journey to the Stars Continues...

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