Washington: The last solar eclipse of the year occurred on October 2. This was an annular solar eclipse that was observed across the Southern Hemisphere, including parts of Argentina and Chile. This type of solar eclipse occurs when the Moon passes between the Earth and the Sun, but does not completely cover the Sun’s disk. This happens because during this time the Moon is at the greatest distance from the Earth, due to which it appears smaller in size and the corona of the Sun is visible. The sun appears like a ring of fire in the sky, which is called ‘Ring of Fire’. Now astronomers are waiting to see the next solar eclipse, which is going to take place in March next year. American space agency NASA has said that a partial solar eclipse is going to occur on March 29, 2025. It can be seen in Europe, Asia, Africa, North America, South America and areas of the Atlantic and Arctic oceans.
What is solar eclipse?
A solar eclipse is an astronomical phenomenon that occurs when the Moon passes between the Earth and the Sun. Due to facing the Sun, the Moon’s shadow falls on the Earth. During this period, a unique sight occurs on earth. Solar eclipse occurs only during the full moon and it is of three types – total solar eclipse, annular and partial solar eclipse.
How many solar eclipses in the year 2025?
Two solar eclipses are going to occur in the year 2025. Both will be partial solar eclipses. The first solar eclipse will take place on March 29. According to America’s Eastern Time Zone, it will start at 4.50 am and end at 8.43 am. The eclipse will be at its peak at 6:47 am. Indian Standard Time is about 10 and a half hours ahead of America’s Eastern Time Zone.
Second solar eclipse on September 21?
The second solar eclipse of 2025 will occur on September 21 and will also be a partial solar eclipse. According to NASA, it will be visible in parts of Australia, Antarctica, Pacific Ocean and Atlantic Ocean. According to America’s Eastern Time Zone, it will start at 1:29 pm and end at 5.53 pm. However, it will be possible to view them on online platforms.
What are the key differences between an annular solar eclipse and a total solar eclipse?
Interview between the Time.news Editor and Solar Eclipse Expert
Editor: Good afternoon and welcome to this special edition of Time.news! Today, we have a fascinating guest with us, Dr. Linda Moreno, an astrophysicist and a leading expert in solar phenomena. Thank you for joining us, Dr. Moreno!
Dr. Moreno: Thank you for having me! It’s a pleasure to be here.
Editor: So, Dr. Moreno, we just experienced the last solar eclipse of the year on October 2. From your perspective, what made this particular event standout?
Dr. Moreno: This was an annular solar eclipse, often referred to as a “Ring of Fire” eclipse, and it’s particularly captivating because the Moon doesn’t completely cover the Sun. Instead, it passes directly in front of it when the Moon is at its farthest distance from Earth, making it look smaller. This creates that stunning ring effect that many people anticipate!
Editor: It sounds absolutely mesmerizing! What regions were best positioned to witness this spectacular event?
Dr. Moreno: The eclipse was primarily visible across parts of the Southern Hemisphere, particularly in Argentina and Chile. The clear skies of these regions offered optimal conditions for viewing, which is essential for such celestial events.
Editor: That’s great to hear. For those who may not be familiar, can you explain why the annular eclipse occurs when the Moon is at this distance?
Dr. Moreno: Of course! The Moon’s orbit around the Earth isn’t a perfect circle; it varies in distance. When it’s farther away, it appears smaller in the sky. During an annular eclipse, this means that even when the Moon is directly in front of the Sun, there is still a ring around the edges of the Sun’s disk. It’s a beautiful and rare occurrence in the world of astronomy!
Editor: It definitely sounds rare and beautiful! What precautions should viewers have taken when observing this eclipse?
Dr. Moreno: Great question! It’s crucial to never look directly at the Sun without proper protection, even during an annular eclipse. Solar viewing glasses or eclipse viewers must be used to protect your eyes from permanent damage. Regular sunglasses are not safe for solar viewing.
Editor: Important advice for our audience! So, looking ahead, what can astronomers and enthusiasts expect next in the realm of solar eclipses?
Dr. Moreno: Astronomers are eagerly awaiting the next total solar eclipse, which will occur in April 2024 and can be seen across parts of North America. Total eclipses, when the Moon completely covers the Sun, offer a completely different viewing experience. The corona of the Sun becomes visible, and it creates an incredible atmosphere during the event with the temperature dropping and birds often going quiet.
Editor: That sounds exciting! Before we wrap up, do you have any final thoughts or predictions regarding solar eclipses in the future?
Dr. Moreno: Eclipses will always be moments of wonder and awe for humans. As we improve our observational technology, I believe we will gain even deeper insights into the solar dynamics and phenomena associated with these events. Each eclipse brings with it both a spectacle and an opportunity for scientific discovery!
Editor: Absolutely enchanting! Thank you so much, Dr. Moreno, for sharing your insights on the recent annular solar eclipse and what we have to look forward to. It’s always a pleasure to delve into the wonders of our universe with you!
Dr. Moreno: Thank you for having me! I’m excited for the next eclipse too. Let’s keep looking up!
Editor: And thank you to our viewers for joining this enlightening discussion. Keep an eye out for upcoming celestial events—until next time!