Update: Ring of Fire Solar Eclipse 2023: Date, Time, and How to Watch (Video)
Solar eclipses are one of the most awe-inspiring natural phenomena on Earth. When the Moon passes in front of the Sun, it casts a shadow on Earth, blocking out the Sun’s light. This can create a variety of effects, depending on the type of eclipse and where you are located.
The next solar eclipse will occur on October 14, 2023. It will be an annular solar eclipse, which means that the Moon will pass directly in front of the Sun but will not completely block it out. This will leave a ring of sunlight visible around the Moon, creating a “ring of fire” effect.
The annular solar eclipse will be visible from parts of North America, South America, Africa, and Europe. The best places to see it will be in the central United States, Mexico, and Central America.
Solar Eclipse Date and Time
The annular solar eclipse will begin on October 14, 2023, at 9:13 AM EDT and will end at 12:03 PM EDT. The maximum eclipse will occur at 10:39 AM EDT.
How to Watch the Solar Eclipse
It is important to never look directly at the Sun, even during a solar eclipse. To watch the eclipse safely, you can use a variety of methods, such as:
- Projecting the Sun’s image onto a screen. You can do this using a telescope or binoculars and a white sheet of paper.
- Using a solar filter. Solar filters are designed to block out the Sun’s harmful rays. You can purchase solar filters from many astronomy stores and online retailers.
- Watching a livestream of the eclipse. There will be many organizations livestreaming the eclipse online. You can also watch the eclipse on NASA’s website.
Additional Safety Tips
- Do not look directly at the Sun, even through sunglasses or colored glasses.
- If you are using a telescope or binoculars to view the eclipse, make sure to use a solar filter.
- Take breaks from viewing the eclipse to give your eyes a rest.
- If you have any eye conditions, consult with your doctor before viewing the eclipse.
Where to Watch the Solar Eclipse in the USA
The annular solar eclipse will be visible from many parts of the United States, but the best places to see it will be in the central United States, Mexico, and Central America. Here are a few specific locations in the USA where you can watch the eclipse:
- Kansas City, Missouri
- St. Louis, Missouri
- Des Moines, Iowa
- Omaha, Nebraska
- Wichita, Kansas
- Tulsa, Oklahoma
- Oklahoma City, Oklahoma
- Fort Worth, Texas
- Dallas, Texas
- San Antonio, Texas
- Austin, Texas
The annular solar eclipse of 2023 is a rare and amazing event. If you are fortunate enough to be in a location where it will be visible, be sure to take the necessary precautions to watch it safely.