Skygazers are in for a visual delight as a rare annular solar eclipse is set to take place on October 2, 2024. This type of eclipse, commonly known as the ‘ring of fire’ eclipse, occurs when the Moon passes between the Earth and the Sun. However, due to the Moon’s distance from Earth, it doesn’t entirely cover the Sun. This results in a bright ring of sunlight surrounding the Moon, creating a breathtaking effect. Although the eclipse won’t be visible in India, people from around the world can witness it through live streams.
What is an Annular Solar Eclipse?
An annular solar eclipse happens when the Moon is at or near its apogee—the farthest point in its orbit from Earth. This makes the Moon appear smaller, preventing it from completely covering the Sun. Unlike a total solar eclipse, the outer edges of the Sun remain visible, forming a fiery ring in the sky.
Eclipse Timing and Path
The eclipse will begin at 9:12 PM IST on October 2, starting over the southern Pacific Ocean. The ‘ring of fire’ will first be visible in southern Chile at around 10:20 PM IST and will pass through parts of Argentina. The event will conclude over the southern Atlantic Ocean at 2:09 AM IST on October 3.
One of the most exciting viewing locations will be Easter Island (Rapa Nui), where up to 87% of the Sun will be obscured. The annular phase here will last from 9:33 PM to 9:39 PM IST.
Cities to View the ‘Ring of Fire’
While only about 1,75,000 people will be within the path of annularity, millions worldwide will witness a partial eclipse. Key locations to experience the eclipse include:
-Southern Chile (Annular)
-Argentina:
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- Punta Arenas
- El Calafate
- Buenos Aires
- Rio Grande
- Montevideo
- Rio de Janeiro
- São Paulo
- Santiago
- Asuncion
Other notable spots for viewing the partial eclipse are:
Hawaii: Honolulu
Palmyra Atoll
Tahiti
Suva
Adamstown
Stanley
The maximum eclipse, featuring the ‘ring of fire,’ will occur over Argentina at 12:15 AM IST on October 3, lasting approximately 7 minutes and 25 seconds.
Will It Be Visible in India?
Unfortunately, the annular and partial solar eclipse won’t be visible in India. However, those interested can watch the event live through online streams.
Stay updated with Times Now for the latest news on this eclipse and other technological advancements around the world.