A stunning annular solar eclipse recently graced Antarctica, showcasing the moon’s dance across the sun. This rare event allowed a select few to witness a fiery halo in the sky as the moon partially covered the sun, leaving its edges glowing.
The eclipse took place on February 17 when the moon, at a new moon phase, moved between the sun and Earth. Because of its position in its elliptical orbit, the moon appeared smaller, which is why it couldn’t completely hide the sun.
The eclipse began at 4:56 a.m. EST, transforming the sun into a crescent before the moon fully entered its path. The “annularity” phase—the moment when the ring effect is visible—lasted about two minutes. It was primarily observable over a remote stretch of Antarctica, home to the Concordia research station, where fewer than a hundred researchers and visitors usually reside.
Interestingly, a partial eclipse was visible to around 176 million people, which is about 2% of the global population. This included viewers in the southern regions of South America and parts of southern Africa, like Madagascar, according to Time and Date. The spectacle concluded at 9:27 a.m. EST as the moon slipped away from the sun, restoring its brilliance.
Looking ahead, skywatchers can expect another captivating cosmic event: a total lunar eclipse, often termed a “blood moon,” on March 3. This phenomenon happens when Earth casts its shadow on the moon, dimming it while reflecting the colors from sunrises and sunsets occurring around our planet. It’s estimated that over 2.5 billion people will witness this event, particularly folks in North America.
If you’re planning to watch upcoming eclipses, keep in mind you won’t need protective eyewear for the lunar event. However, eye safety is crucial for the total solar eclipse on August 12, so make sure you have proper eclipse glasses. You can find a helpful guide to checking eclipse glasses safety here.
Cosmic events like eclipses not only captivate our imagination but also spark community interest. Social media platforms are often filled with discussions and sharing of photographs from these experiences, highlighting a sense of global connection as we all look up at the same skies. So, whether you’re a seasoned astronomer or a casual observer, these moments unite us in awe of the universe.
