Heads up: a rare solar eclipse is happening this Saturday, and some lucky Americans will be able to see the full splendor of what’s known as the “ring of fire effect.” Here’s what you need to know about the eclipse to catch it now, because you won’t get the chance to see another until 2046.
What is the ring of fire solar eclipse?
This celestial event is called an annular eclipse, but is better known as a “ring of fire” eclipse due to the fact that—unlike a total eclipse—the moon does not fully block the sun as it passes between it and the earth, leaving a dazzling ring surrounding the moon’s shadow.
When is the annular solar eclipse this year?
The annular solar eclipse will happen on October 14, 2023. Only some states will see the full effect, a partial eclipse will be visible—weather permitting—in all 49 continental states in the U.S., including Alaska.
Which U.S. states will see the Ring of Fire eclipse and at what time?
The path of the Ring of Fire eclipse will pass through much of the U.S. West and Southwest. Major cities like Eugene, Albuquerque, and San Antonio will be able to see the rare full ring. While other cities may miss out on the ring, they’ll still get to see a partial eclipse. NASA has created an interactive Eclipse Explorer map so you can see exactly when the eclipse will be visible in your city and how much of it you’ll be able to see. The eclipse will be visible beginning at 9:13am PST (12:13pm EST) on Saturday.
How to watch the annular solar eclipse:
Depending on where you are, and weather conditions, you’ll be able to see it just by looking outside. The eclipse will last anywhere from 30 seconds to several minutes, depending on your location. If you can’t make it outside, NASA will be sharing a live stream beginning at 11:30am EST on eclipse day, with views from Albuquerque, New Mexico, Kirbyville, Texas and White Sands, New Mexico.
How to safely view the event:
Rule number one of an eclipse is never look directly at the sun. You’ll need specialized protection so you don’t harm your eyes. Wear certified eclipse glasses, use a solar viewer or look at it with a telescope or binoculars with a special solar filter.
How often does it happen:
An annular eclipse happens every one or two years. The last one happened in 2012. The chance to see full annularity—the “ring of fire”—here in the U.S., however, is rare. The next time you’ll be able to see it will be 2046.
Does the solar eclipse have special meaning?
While a total annular solar eclipse doesn’t have any sort of special meaning, it is indeed a rare, beautiful site to see.