‘Ring of Fire’ Solar Eclipse 2024: Will It Be Visible in India? Check Details Here
'Ring of Fire' Solar Eclipse 2024: Will It Be Visible in India? Check Details Here
This celestial phenomenon, referred to as the “Ring of Fire,” will be visible for more than six hours, beginning at 9:13 PM IST and concluding at 3:17 PM IST the following day.
The annular solar eclipse of 2024 is set to occur on Wednesday, October 2. During this celestial event, the Moon will move between the Earth and the Sun but appear slightly smaller, leaving a radiant ring of sunlight around its shadowed center—a phenomenon commonly referred to as the “Ring of Fire.” According to Space.com, the eclipse will begin at 9:13 PM IST and conclude at 3:17 AM IST the next day, making the peak of the event visible to those within the eclipse’s path of annularity.
Unfortunately for skywatchers in India, this extraordinary event will not be visible as it takes place during the nighttime hours in the country. The annular eclipse will be observable across regions of the Pacific Ocean, southern Chile, and southern Argentina, but not from India. As a result, traditional rituals like the Sutak Kaal, observed during eclipses in India, will not be applicable this time.
For those fortunate enough to be within the visibility zone, it’s a prime opportunity for astronomy enthusiasts to witness one of nature’s remarkable displays. However, safety precautions are vital, as looking directly at the Sun can cause severe eye damage. Certified eclipse glasses or a homemade pinhole projector are essential tools for safely viewing this event.
What is a “Ring of Fire” Solar Eclipse?
As NASA explains, a “Ring of Fire” solar eclipse occurs when the Moon passes in front of the Sun but, due to its smaller size in the sky, fails to cover the Sun entirely. This creates a glowing, fiery ring around the darkened Moon, providing a breathtaking spectacle.
The Moon’s orbit around the Earth is elliptical, causing its apparent size in the sky to fluctuate. When it reaches its farthest point, known as apogee, the Moon appears smaller, creating the conditions for an annular solar eclipse instead of a total one.
What is a Solar Eclipse?
According to NASA, solar eclipses happen when the Sun, Moon, and Earth align, causing the Moon to cast a shadow on Earth and either partially or completely block the Sun’s light. Because the Moon’s orbit is slightly tilted in relation to Earth’s, these alignments are rare, occurring during specific periods known as eclipse seasons, which happen twice a year.
Remember, direct observation of the Sun without proper protection is dangerous. Those hoping to experience the beauty of this eclipse should always use certified solar viewing glasses or construct a pinhole projector to view the eclipse safely.
