From meteor showers to unexpected northern lights displays, it’s been quite the year for astronomical spectacles. But few are as rare as a solar eclipse – let alone an annular solar eclipse.
This afternoon, parts of South America will (if the weather permits) catch a glimpse of this phenomenon, which only occurs when the moon is at its furthest point from the earth. So, if you’re lucky enough to be in the area that’ll witness this marvel, or you’re just wondering ‘hey, what on earth is an annular solar eclipse?’ then read on – here is everything you need to know.
What is an annular solar eclipse?
We know what a solar eclipse looks like – when the moon moves perfectly within the path of the sun and completely blocks out the light (if you’re within the path of totality, that is), causing a moment of total darkness.
But an annular solar eclipse is a little different – in this case, some of the sun will still be visible, and instead only the centre will be blocked by the moon leaving a ‘ring of fire’ around the edge. This happens because the moon is at its furthest point from the earth (the apogee). When it’s at its closest point (the perigee), that’s when we get a supermoon.
Where can you see the ‘ring of fire’ solar eclipse?
It will be visible in various parts of South America on October 2. Easter Island will get a glimpse first, at 2.08pm local time (9.08pm CEST), and then Chile at 5.20pm, before it will move east over Argentina and be partly visible (around 80-85 percent) from the Falkland Islands.
What is the weather forecast?
Unfortunately, the weather’s not looking too good – the majority of areas where the eclipse could be visible are set to be pretty overcast, with much of southern Chile likely to experience cloud, rain, sleet and even snow on higher ground.
If you happen to be on the eastern side of the Andes, though, you might have a bit more luck as this region should get some clear skies.
How to watch the eclipse safely?
Rule number one: never, ever look directly at the sun. We know it’s tempting, but it can seriously damage your eyesight.
Instead, you can either cop some ISO-approved solar eclipse glasses (absolutely no old 3D cinema specs are allowed), or you can make a pinhole projector. To do so, make a hole in a piece of card, hold that up to the sun with a piece of paper behind it and then you’ll be able to see a mini eclipse.
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