Our Experts for Tahiti

Dr John Mason, Astronomy Expert

We are very lucky to be accompanied on our tour by acclaimed astronomer Dr. John Mason MBE, widely regarded as one of the leading authorities in astronomy and who has an unparalleled knowledge of eclipses.

John has written or edited over 70 books, has appeared on television programmes including the BBC's The Sky at Night and Tomorrow's World, has given lectures on astronomy across the globe and has led numerous astronomy and eclipse-chasing expeditions. Those of you who have met John on previous Explorers eclipse tours know what an entertaining and enthusiastic expert he is.

We will have the benefit of John's knowledge in the lead up to and during our eclipse observation on the island of Hao. On the evening of eclipse day on the island of Hao, John will be treating us to his Live Planetarium Show, taking advantage of a spectacular view of the southern sky.

Sergio Rapu, Easter Island Guide

We are very fortunate to have as our Easter Island guide, the former Governor of the island, Sergio Rapu. Sergio was the first native Easter Islander to hold the post of Governor (1984-1990) and has since become recognised as a leading authority on the island and its history. He has led much of the restoration work on the island's monolithic stone heads (moai) and has appeared in various documentaries for the BBC, Discovery Channel and CNN. He has lectured in numerous international venues including the Smithsonian Institute, Sudan University in China, the National Museum in Rome, and le Musée de l'Homme in Paris.