We get to witness the solar eclipse about twice or thrice every year. This year’s first solar eclipse is set to occur on June 10.
The phenomenon where the Sun, Moon and the Earth align in a straight line and the Moon casts its shadow on Earth%u2019s surface is referred to as the solar eclipse.
Types of solar eclipse
There are three types of solar eclipse observed that depend upon the Moon’s position with respect to Sun and Earth. A total solar eclipse occurs when the Moon is close enough to the Sun that it seems just as big or bigger than the Sun to us.
When the Moon%u2019s shadow only partially obscures the light coming from the sun, it is called a partial solar eclipse.
The Ring of Fire is an annular solar eclipse in which the Moon is far enough that it is smaller than the son. The partial eclipse only lasts for a few minutes during which the Sun’s light looks like a Ring of Fire around the Moon.
Also read: Darwin’s Arch in Galapagos collapses. ‘Consequence of natural erosion’
Can you watch the solar eclipse?
NASA advises against watching the phenomena with naked eyes. Even regular sunglasses are not to be used as they do not provide enough protection.
However, there are special solar viewing glasses that may be worn by an individual who wishes to witness the eclipse.
