Space - some call it the final frontier, others call it 'that big black thing in the sky' and even others spend their lives involved in its mysteries, studying it, analysing it and never really uncovering anything more than further unanswered questions.

But wherever you fit on that continuum, there is no denying that phenomena like the past weekend's (May 18) solar eclipse are cool to look at and wonder about.

And even though we here in Australia didn't get a view of Sunday's display, we are in for a treat - a rare and lucky one at that - next month.

Venus transit events happen in pairs, which are usually separated by about eight years - the last one happened in 2004.

The planet makes its way across the face of the sun from the Earth's perspective and appears as a pattern of dots in silhouette across the fiery ball.

The main point about this event, however, is that it is extremely rare - the next pair of transits won't make an appearance until 2117!

The best-selling science author Dava Sobel was in Sydney for the Writers' Festival and commented on the Venus transit to the audience in her closing speech.

The Sydney Morning Herald reported that the author advised the crowd not to miss the event, describing it as ''the most rare, most spread-out astronomical event that happens on a remotely human scale".

She added that if James Cook hadn't travelled to Tahiti to view the Venus transit in 1769 he may never have discovered Australia.

Viewing the event can be tricky, because looking at the sun with the naked eye is a definite no-no.

Space.com recommends that viewers make use of welders' goggles when viewing sun-related phenomena - they can be the perfect tool for the job, providing the necessary filtered glass protection.

You can also buy specially treated solar viewing equipment that will fit over glasses and cameras - perfect for the amateur photographer to have a go with!

The Venus transit will take place over June 5 and 6 and the best place to see it from will be the eastern side of the country.

Book any accommodation or travel now if you can, as this is definitely an event not to be missed!