Get a glimpse of the partial lunar eclipse at Seven Suites Hotel Observatory

MANILA, Philippines - The next partial lunar eclipse — a much-awaited event not only for amateur astronomers but the general public alike — will be witnessed in this country on June 26.

To celebrate this in style, Seven Suites Hotel Observatory, in cooperation with Hollywood Steak House, launches the “Partial Lunar Eclipse” photo competition. Seven Suites is the only hotel-cum-observatory in the country. Its 12-inch-diameter telescope is the fourth most powerful in the country — after the telescopes of PAGASA, UP NISMED, and the observatory in Baguio.

“We know that a lot of people are anticipating this event. Seven Suites is the perfect location to witness the beauty of a partial lunar eclipse. Observers can see the entire event and, with the help of our in-house astronomer, they can learn so much more about this occurrence,” says Jasmine Casim, operations manager.

The competition is open to all amateurs, hobbyists, professional film and digital photographers. A registration fee of P250 comes with free iced tea, assorted canapés and use of the telescope. Photos must be taken during the night of June 26, and should not have won nor have been published in any book or magazine. There will be two categories: the Eclipse Category and the Best Nighttime Shot of the Skyline/City Lights Category.

Participants may use any digital or film-based camera. Entries must be printed in full color on any brand of photo paper in 8R size.  Manually retouched and/or painted over print outputs are not allowed. Creative effects done within the camera at the time of exposure (e.g. multiple exposures, flash fill, lighting, filtration, etc.) are allowed. Digital retouching on density, contrast adjustments, minor cropping, burning, and dodging may be tolerated, although major manipulation of main images through adding or subtracting are not allowed.

The contest will be held on June 26, 6 p.m., at the Observatory deck of the hotel. Deadline for submission of entries is on June 30 at The Seven Suites Hotel Observatory.

On June 26, Seven Suites will also celebrate a Lunar Eclipse Cocktail featuring good food, flowing wine and great music.

For the Eclipse Category, the first-prize winner will receive an overnight accommodation at the Garden Suites of The Seven Suites Hotel Observatory. Consolation price is a gift certificate worth P2,000 at Hollywood Steak House and Sugar. For the Best Nighttime Shot Category, the winner will get an overnight accommodation at The Silver Suites of the hotel, while the consolation prize is the same as above.

Seven Suites Hotel Observatory is at Hollywood Hills Subdivision, Sumulong Highway, Antipolo City. It’s only 30 minutes away from Cubao or Ortigas. For information, call 682-0330, 682-2076 or visit www.sevensuites.net.