The annular solar eclipse of 2024 is scheduled to occur on Wednesday, October 2. according to space.com, During this astronomical event, the Moon will appear smaller than the Sun, leaving a bright ring of sunlight surrounding the dark center. This astronomical spectacle, also known as the “Ring of Fire”, will be visible for more than six hours, starting at 9:13 pm IST and ending at 3:17 pm IST the next day. During peak, the Moon will create a “ring of fire” effect for viewers within the annular path.
Is the annular solar eclipse visible from India?
This astronomical event will be visible over the Pacific Ocean, southern Chile and parts of southern Argentina. However, skywatchers in India will be disappointed. Since the time of eclipse is at night, it will not be visible across the country.
As a result, the Sutak Kaal period, which is the time traditionally followed during the eclipse, will not be applicable in India.
This event provides astronomy enthusiasts and skywatchers an opportunity to prepare for a captivating astronomical event. Remember, proper safety precautions are important when viewing the solar eclipse directly.
What is ‘Ring of Fire’ solar eclipse?
According to NASA, this phenomenon occurs when the Moon passes directly in front of the Sun, but appears too small to completely cover the Sun’s surface – resulting in a ring of fire in the sky.
The Moon moves in an elliptical orbit around Earth, so at two points each month, it is farthest (apogee) and closest (perigee) to Earth, making the Moon appear slightly smaller and slightly larger on average in our sky. .
What is solar eclipse?
According to NASA, a solar eclipse occurs when the Sun, Moon and Earth completely or partially line up. Depending on how they align, eclipses provide a unique, exciting view of the Sun or Moon.
A solar eclipse occurs when the Moon passes between the Sun and Earth, casting a shadow on Earth that completely or partially blocks sunlight in some areas. This happens rarely, because the Moon does not revolve in the exact same plane as the Sun and the Earth. The time when they align is known as eclipse season, which occurs twice a year.
One thing to note is that looking at the Sun directly is never safe. But those who want to see it must use certified eclipse glasses, or build a cardboard pinhole projector.