Millions of Americans are gearing up to witness a rare phenomenon this Saturday, as a “ring of fire” annular solar eclipse is set to take place, visible over several states in the U.S. NASA will be providing live coverage of the event via its livestream, featuring conversations with scientists and telescope views from different locations across the country.
A solar eclipse occurs when the moon passes between the sun and the Earth, and in this particular event, the moon will be at its farthest point from Earth, making it appear smaller than the sun and not completely blocking its rays, resulting in the mesmerizing “ring of fire” effect.
For those interested in watching the solar eclipse, NASA’s livestream can be accessed either through the video at the top of their webpage or on their YouTube channel. It promises to be an educational and captivating experience, offering insights from experts and breathtaking imagery.
Weather permitting, the eclipse will be visible in multiple states, including Oregon, Nevada, Utah, New Mexico, Texas, as well as parts of California, Idaho, Colorado, and Arizona. It will also extend its path through Central America in countries like Mexico, Belize, Honduras, and Panama, before traveling through Colombia in South America and concluding off the coast of Natal, Brazil.
The eclipse is expected to first become visible in Oregon at around 9:13 a.m. PDT, and it will conclude in Texas approximately at 12:03 p.m. CDT. It is crucial to note that proper precautions should be taken while watching the eclipse, such as using eclipse glasses or a viewer to protect the eyes from harmful solar radiation.
It’s important to highlight that this particular annular solar eclipse is distinct from a total eclipse. The next total eclipse is anticipated to occur in April and will be the final opportunity for individuals in the states to witness the “ring of fire” phenomenon for several years.
As the eagerly anticipated event approaches, people are advised to find the optimal viewing locations and make the necessary preparations. With NASA’s livestream and the right safety measures, both astronomy enthusiasts and curious individuals can relish the beauty and wonder of this celestial event.