EclipseConnect 2025 was the pilot initiative of SEAYAN, developed through consultation with regional astronomy education leaders and designed to test collaborative potential across youth astronomy communities in Southeast Asia.
Timed with the total lunar eclipse on the night of 7–8 September 2025, we brought together astronomy clubs and student-led science teams from across Southeast Asia for a unified, real-time observation and outreach initiative.
SEAYAN partnered with the NUS High Observatory in Singapore to give participating clubs a high-resolution view of the total lunar eclipse through an observatory telescope, livestreamed conveniently to their devices throughout the duration of the eclipse. This allowed participants to appreciate the rare beauty of a total lunar eclipse in a highly accessible fashion.
In addition, all participating clubs had the opportunity to conduct a short club showcase for a diverse international audience, for the purposes of outreach, on an online platform hosted by SEAYAN.
EclipseConnect 2025 brought together ~95 participants from 7 astronomy clubs in Southeast Asia.
Paduka Seri Begawan Sultan Science College
Club Showcases
Participating clubs presented about their regular astronomy sessions, unique projects, and the impact they have had within their local school communities. This segment offered students a platform to share how their clubs engage members, conduct outreach activities, and foster a passion for astronomy among their peers.
Astronomy-Themed Collaborative Escape Room
In this interactive virtual escape room, paired schools collaborated to solve puzzles based on lunar eclipse phenomena and celestial mechanics. By working together, students applied scientific concepts while developing communication and teamwork skills across borders.
Guided Eclipse Observation Session
Students participated in a guided observation session led by the NUS High Observatory, which provided live telescope broadcasts with expert commentary on lunar eclipse phenomena and key astronomical features. This educational segment offered real-time learning about eclipse mechanics while students observed alongside their regional peers.
EclipseConnect 2025 demonstrated the viability of SEAYAN’s model for regional collaboration. Students took ownership of their events, developed leadership and science communication skills, and built connections with peers in other countries. The program significantly raised SEAYAN’s visibility, both within school communities and in the wider astronomy education landscape.
Feedback from participants was positive. Students valued the opportunity to share their passion for astronomy with a broader audience, while faculty advisors noted the event’s role in inspiring interest among younger students and strengthening their school communities. Importantly, the initiative showed that despite differences in resources and technical capacity, meaningful collaboration is achievable when supported by clear coordination and shared enthusiasm.