Annular solar eclipse 2024 ‘ring of fire’: Here's when to watch it

Those in southern hemisphere, particularly Chile and Argentina can witness annular solar eclipse today
An undated image of annular solar eclipse. — NASA
An undated image of annular solar eclipse. — NASA

As the annular solar eclipse “ring of fire” is set to alter skies today, October 2 in various parts of the globe, excitement among sky enthusiasts has surged to its peak.

Those in the southern hemisphere can witness this celestial event, but many wonder at what time the eclipse will start appearing.

Read more: All astronomical events of October 2024

What is annular solar eclipse?

In an annular solar eclipse, the moon will pass before the sun, creating a “ring of fire” effect in the sky. It differs from a total solar eclipse as the moon will not completely cover the sun.

Annular solar eclipse 2024 timing

The annular eclipse will begin in the southern Pacific Ocean and cross over Chile and Argentina before ending in the southern Atlantic Ocean.

The first location to see the partial phase of the annular eclipse will be at 11:42am EDT in the southern Pacific Ocean, while the annularity phase will begin at 12:50pm EDT in the region of Argentina and reach its maximum at 2:45pm EDT in the southern Atlantic Ocean.

At maximum eclipse the sun will be just over 86% covered by the moon, creating a rare sight that will captivate everyone.

Annular solar eclipse 2024 live streaming

Those who are likely to miss the spectacular solar eclipse in person, such as Pakistan, India, and other neighbouring regions can visit various online resources providing live streams of the event.

The best time to watch will be from 3:03pm to 3:09pm EDT when the ring of fire will be seen for up to 6 minutes, 11 seconds from Easter Island.

However, the next time to tune in will be between 4:18pm and 4:31pm EDT when the eclipse will be visible from southern Chile and Argentina.

Which countries will see partial solar eclipse?

While the annular solar eclipse will be visible in Chile and Argentina, the partial solar eclipse will be visible in the following regions.

  • American Samoa
  • Antarctica
  • Argentina
  • Baker Island
  • Brazil
  • Chile
  • Christmas Island
  • Clipperton Island
  • Falkland Islands
  • Fiji
  • Hawaii USA
  • Mexico
  • New Zealand
  • Paraguay
  • South Georgia
  • Uruguay

Notably, solar eclipse glasses can be used to view the “ring of fire,” to avoid looking directly at the sun during the eclipse as it can cause permanent damage to the eyes.