Where to View the Annular Solar Eclipse of 2023 and What to Know According to NASA
Have you ever seen a fiery ring in the sky during a solar eclipse? Well, get ready because this incredible event is about to happen again. NASA explains that an annular solar eclipse takes place when the Moon comes between the Earth and the Sun while being at its farthest distance from us. This specific alignment causes the Moon to appear slightly smaller than the Sun, creating a dazzling “ring of fire” around the outer edges of the Sun.
The celestial spectacle of a solar eclipse will appear in the skies of North, Central and South America on Saturday, October 14, 2023. This annular solar eclipse promises to create a mesmerizing “ring of fire” effect that will captivate millions of sky watchers. across the Western Hemisphere.
To view this amazing annular solar eclipse, NASA has shared some guidelines:
Safety first: How to watch in person:
According to NASA, during the annular eclipse, it is important to emphasize that looking directly at the sun without proper eye protection is not safe. Although the Moon does not completely cover the Sun, its strong rays can still cause serious eye damage. Consider the following options to observe the eclipse safely:
Specialized solar viewing glasses: These glasses are designed to protect your eyes from harmful solar radiation and allow you to view the eclipse safely.
Pinhole Projector: An indirect irrigation method where you create a simple projector using a cardboard box or paper to project the image of the eclipse onto a surface.
Where do you witness the “ring of fire”?
According to space.com, the path of the annular eclipse stretches from the northwestern United States through Central America to Brazil. This 125-mile (200-kilometer) wide path is where the “ring of fire” is most visible. In the United States, states like Oregon, Nevada, Utah, New Mexico, Texas, and parts of California, Idaho, Colorado, and Arizona experience this breathtaking event.
Online streaming
For those unable to travel to the path of the eclipse, there are several online streaming options to enjoy this celestial wonder from home:
NASA Live Stream: NASA will broadcast the eclipse on its YouTube channel, offering telescope and conversations with solar scientists. You can participate in the livestream chat using #askNASA.
timeanddate.com: This skywatching site offers a comprehensive streaming and live blog experience, along with real-time progress reports and background information.
San Francisco’s Exploratorium: They offer several live broadcasts from various locations, including Valley of the Gods in Utah and Ely, Nevada, as well as options for live sonification and Eclipse coverage in Spanish.
Whether you want to watch the Ring of Fire in person, on the eclipse path, or in the comfort of your own home via an online stream, remember to make safety a priority.
