Often referred to as the ‘Ring of Fire,’ an annular solar eclipse will take place on October 2, 2024. This is a rare celestial event where the moon will be too far from the Earth to completely cover the sun, leaving a bright, fiery ring visible around the moon’s silhouette. The 2024 solar eclipse is particularly exciting for stargazers and space enthusiasts as it will be visible across multiple parts of the United States and other regions. In India, solar eclipse is called Surya Grahan. In this article, we’ll learn about what an annular solar eclipse is, its date and time, visibility and tips to watch.

What Is Annular Solar Eclipse?

An annular solar eclipse occurs when the moon passes between the Earth and the sun, but does not completely block the sun’s light. In total solar eclipse, the moon fully covers the sun, however, in an annular solar eclipse, the moon is slightly smaller in the sky. As a result, it leaves a ring of sunlight, commonly referred to as the ‘Ring of Fire,’ visible around the edges.

Annular Solar Eclipse 2024 Date and Sutak Time

The annular solar eclipse will begin at 11:42 AM EDT (09:12PM IST) on October 2,2024. The eclipse will peak at 02:24 PM EDT (11:54 PM IST). During this time, the moon will start covering the sun, creating a ‘Ring of Fire.’ The eclipse will be visible to those within the path of annularity. In India, annular solar eclipse will not be visible and there will be no Sutak time.

Annular Solar Eclipse Visibility

The annular solar eclipse 2024 will be visible to those within a specific path of annularity. This path is between 165 to 206 miles wide, covering parts of the Pacific Ocean, southern Chile and southern Argentina. Notably, approximately 175,000 people who live within this path will witness upto 93 per cent of the sun’s disk being covered by the moon. Those outside the path will only see a partial eclipse. This solar eclipse will be visible in Mexico, the northern parts of South America, Antarctica, Hawaii, Honolulu, Argentina, Peru, French Polynesia Ocean, Uruguay, Chile, Brazil, the southern part of North America, Buenos Aires, Bekaa Island, Easter Islands, Atlantic, Arctic, and Pacific Ocean.

Surya Grahan 2024 in India

The annular solar eclipse will not be visible in India. The eclipse coincides with Gandhi Jayanti, and Pitru Paksha will end with Surya Grahan 2024. There will not be Surya Grahan Sutak Kaal in India.

Annular Solar Eclipse Viewing Tips

It must be fascinating to watch a solar eclipse, but it is crucial to observe with safety measures. Looking directly at the sun, especially during the eclipse, can cause permanent damage to the eyes. You must wear specially designed eclipse glasses to protect your eyes or use other safe viewing methods, such as pinhole projectors. Ordinary sunglasses are not enough to shield your eyes from the harmful rays of the sun during an eclipse.

Moreover, you can always watch the livestream of the annular solar eclipse 2024.

Annular Solar Eclipse Livestream

The annular solar eclipse 2024 promises to be a remarkable sight, offering a rare opportunity to witness the 'Ring of Fire.' Whether you're a seasoned eclipse chaser or a first-time viewer, this celestial event is not to be missed! Get ready and be prepared to witness the annular solar eclipse 2024 on October 2.

(The above story first appeared on LatestLY on Sep 10, 2024 10:54 AM IST. For more news and updates on politics, world, sports, entertainment and lifestyle, log on to our website latestly.com).