Annular Solar Eclipse in Libra

The Moon’s orbit is elliptical, so its apparent size changes. When a central alignment with the Sun occurs near the Moon’s farthest distance (apogee), the Moon’s apparent diameter is smaller than the Sun’s. The Moon then casts its antumbra onto Earth, producing a “ring of fire” along a narrow path where observers see the annulus. Surrounding regions experience a partial eclipse as the Moon takes a bite out of the Sun. Unlike a total solar eclipse, the Sun’s brilliant photosphere is never fully covered in an annular eclipse, so the corona is not visible. The path of annularity is relatively narrow, while the partial phases extend across a much wider area. Local visibility and timing depend on one’s location along Earth’s surface.

Seeing it Eye safety is essential: direct viewing of the Sun during an annular or partial solar eclipse requires proper, certified solar filters (such as ISO 12312-2 eclipse glasses or solar viewers). Ordinary sunglasses are not safe for looking at the Sun. Only during the brief total phase of a total solar eclipse—when totality is actually occurring—is it safe to view without filters; that condition does not occur in an annular eclipse. Use approved solar filters on binoculars, cameras, and telescopes, or view indirectly with a pinhole projector. Visibility and exact times depend on your location, and the ring is seen only along the narrow path of annularity.