The upcoming solar eclipse on October 14, 2023, won’t be visible in India; it’s limited to a specific geographical area. If you’re in India and eager to witness an eclipse, you’ll have to wait for a different one. This eclipse will be an annular solar eclipse, showcasing the mesmerizing ‘Ring of Fire’ phenomenon for those in its path.
On the day of the eclipse, it will be visible in a narrow path across the United States, from Oregon to Texas, with some parts of Canada and Mexico also getting a glimpse of the ‘Ring of Fire’. Remember, safety is crucial when viewing a solar eclipse. Never look directly at the Sun, as it can cause permanent damage to your eyes. Use special solar eclipse glasses, a solar filter, or project the Sun’s image onto a white surface with the help of a telescope or binoculars.
An interesting fact: this will be the first annular solar eclipse visible in the United States since 2012 and the first to cross the entire country since 1916. At its peak, the Moon will cover 91% of the Sun. If you can’t witness the annularity in person, don’t worry. Many live streams and television broadcasts will bring this celestial spectacle right to your screens.
Before we wrap up, let’s have a quick overview of what a solar eclipse is. It happens when the Moon comes between the Earth and the Sun, temporarily blocking the Sun’s light. There are three main types: total, partial, and annular. The annular eclipse, like the one on October 14, allows a ring of sunlight to be seen around the Moon, often called the “Ring of Fire”.
