The skies will light up on April 20th, 2023, with a rare astronomical event – a hybrid solar eclipse. This unique phenomenon occurs when the moon passes before the sun, partially blocking its light and casting a shadow on the Earth’s surface. However, unlike a total solar eclipse, where the moon completely covers the sun, a hybrid eclipse transitions from a total to an annular eclipse, creating a breathtaking spectacle for those lucky enough to witness it.
The hybrid eclipse will not be visible in Pakistan and India:
A hybrid solar eclipse happens when the moon is at a point in its orbit where it is slightly further away from the Earth than during a total solar eclipse. This effect occurs when the moon is directly in front of the sun, and its outer edges are still visible as a bright ring around the moon’s dark disk. This means that its apparent size in the sky is not large enough to cover the sun completely but still large enough to create a “ring of fire” effect. However, The eclipse path will begin in the eastern Pacific Ocean and travel across the open waters for several hours before landfall in southern Chile. It will then move across the Andes Mountains, passing through parts of Argentina and ending in the South Atlantic Ocean. The total duration of the eclipse will be around 2 minutes and 20 seconds, with the maximum point of totality occurring over the Pacific Ocean.
Precautions to protect your eyes:
This will be an incredible opportunity to witness a rare and awe-inspiring celestial event for those on the eclipse path. However, taking precautions to protect your eyes during the eclipse is essential. Looking directly at the sun, even during an eclipse, can cause permanent damage to your eyesight. The only safe way to observe an eclipse is by using special eclipse glasses or a solar filter attached to a telescope or camera lens.
Last hybrid eclipse occurred:
Hybrid solar eclipses are relatively rare, with only a few occurring each century. The last hybrid eclipse occurred on November 3rd, 2013; the next one is not expected until April 8th, 2024. Therefore, if you are lucky enough to be on the eclipse path on April 20th, 2023, ensure you will take advantage of this incredible opportunity.
Read More: The solar eclipse will be visible in Pakistan tomorrow.
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