NEW YORK (AP) — Get ready for a spectacular show! The first solar eclipse of the year will take place over Antarctica. Only a handful of people will be lucky enough to experience it up close.
This Tuesday, we’ll witness an annular solar eclipse, popularly called a “ring of fire.” It will primarily be visible on the southernmost continent, where research stations and unique wildlife exist. “The penguins down there are in for a treat,” said astronomer Joe Llama from Lowell Observatory.
If the skies are clear, folks in places like Chile, Argentina, and parts of southeastern Africa, including Madagascar, will see a partial eclipse. During a solar eclipse, the sun, moon, and Earth align just right. The moon casts a shadow, blocking some or all of the sun’s light from reaching Earth.
Astrophysicist Emily Rice from the City University of New York explains that this alignment is a “beautiful coincidence” due to the moon and sun’s sizes and distances from Earth. In an annular eclipse, the moon is farther away, so it doesn’t entirely cover the sun. Instead, a thin edge of sunlight remains visible.
“The sun essentially gets its core taken out,” Llama added. Solar eclipses happen several times a year, but viewing them requires being in the moon’s shadow. Last year, we saw two partial eclipses, and North America witnessed the last total solar eclipse in 2024.
It’s important to protect your eyes during an eclipse. Even when the sun is mostly covered, looking directly at it can be harmful. Always use eclipse glasses compliant with ISO 12312-2 standards; regular sunglasses or binoculars just won’t cut it. Beware of counterfeit products that claim compliance.
You can also watch the eclipse safely using a pinhole projector made from household items or by holding a colander or cheese grater up to the light. The images will be projected onto the ground, giving you a unique viewing experience.
Mark your calendars! In August, another total solar eclipse will be visible from Greenland, Iceland, Spain, Russia, and parts of Portugal, along with partial views in Europe, Africa, and North America.
Solar eclipses not only delight stargazers but also serve as a reminder of the wonders of our universe. They provide an opportunity to explore astronomy together and learn more about celestial phenomena. Let’s make sure to enjoy this cosmic event safely!
For more details on upcoming eclipses and how to safely view them, you can check resources from NASA and other reputable organizations.
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