On July 22nd 2009 a solar eclipse occured that was the longest seen during the 21st century to date. The next very long solar eclipse won't be for some time - so you've got some time to set up the lawn chairs for a good viewing - try June 2132.

The solar eclipse lasted for 6 minutes and 39 seconds off the coast of Southeast Asia.

To make things really interesting - three eclipses are occuring within about a month's period - the first one on July 7th - then the July 22nd mega-eclipse - then finally an eclipse on August 6th.

Stay tuned in to your sky for a great show!

Source: http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Solar_eclipse_of_July_22,_2009

Photo credit (c) Lynne Lancaster