What is a solar eclipse?
A solar eclipse occurs when the sun, moon, and earth are aligned in such a manner that the moon passes between the sun and the earth and blocks the sunlight. It can be both partial (moon only blocks part of the sun’s light) or total ( moon blocks the sun completely) The moon casts a shadow on earth and as the earth rotates it creates a trail which is called the path of totality. And only in this path will you experience total darkness during an eclipse.
What is an annular solar eclipse?
An annular solar eclipse happens when the sun and moon are exactly in line with the earth. But the moon is too far away to completely cover the sun like in the case of a total eclipse. So, the sun appears as a bright ring or annulus. It is also called a ring of fire eclipse. Read Also: Violent Face-Off Between Indian & Chinese Troops In Galwan Valley; Army Officer, 2 Jawans Killed
Things to remember
Unlike a lunar eclipse, it is very dangerous to see a solar eclipse with naked eyes. Looking at the sun directly can destroy the cells in the retina causing retinal burns which are also known as eclipse blindness or solar retinopathy. Symptoms include loss of vision or distorted vision due to a blindspot.
It is always advisable to protect your eyes and use simple tools like pinhole projection to while observing an eclipse.
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