The “ring of fire” eclipse is a very rare type of solar eclipse that is rarely visible in the United States.
In just a month, this rare occurrence will be viewable from Hawaii and parts of Chile and Argentina. Other South American countries will have a full or partial view of the eclipse.
Last Solar Eclipse in the United States
A total solar eclipse is very rare. The last one occurred in the United States in 2017, and the next will not be viewable until 2044.
The last time the event was viewable, many people damaged their eyes prominently from staring directly at the sun during its peak.
Reasons To Look Away From an Eclipse
The National Eye Institute notes that the risk of retina damage is extremely high during a solar eclipse or similar event.
It’s in our nature to reflexively squint or take a peak at bright sunlight, even though it might hurt or sting our eyes in the moment.
What Is the Ring of Fire Eclipse?
A ring of fire eclipse occurs when the moon passes between the sun and the Earth but does not completely obscure the sun.
Instead, a small outer edge of the sun will still be visible. It will appear like a red ring is surrounding the moon.
When Will It Occur?
The event will occur on Wednesday, October 2, and just like April’s total solar eclipse, the ring of fire will happen in several stages.
At 11:42 a.m. EDT, the partial eclipse will be visible in front of the sun but will not fully obscure it.
Key Facts
Just like total solar eclipses, the ring of fire eclipse can only occur when there is a new moon and the moon, the sun, and the Earth are in a straight, or nearly straight, line.
However, unlike total solar eclipses, annular eclipses occur when the moon is near its farthest point from Earth, this is called an apogee and it allows the ring of fire to be visible (via NASA).
Several Phrases
The Ring of Fire eclipse will go through several visible phases in the sky.
The total eclipse can take anywhere from three hours to complete, but the main event lasts just a few seconds.
The Path of the Eclipse
The path that the ring of fire eclipse will go through is through the South Pacific Ocean, the extreme southwestern Atlantic Ocean and South America.
Chile, Argentina, and Easter Island and only Hawaii will see the entirety of the event.
Where Can You See It?
A partial path will be visible in Hawaii. The best cities for viewing will be Hilo, Honolulu, Kailua-Kona, Lihue, Napili-Honokowai, Wailuku and Waipahu, according to astronomy database.
A full eclipse will be viewable from several large Argentinian and Chilean cities.
Eclipse Safety
Although the eclipse cannot be viewed by the naked eye at any time, there are a few ways that it can be seen safely.
The ring of fire around the moon means that there is no moment where it is safe to take off eclipse glasses completely.
Tips To See It
Solar glasses that meet international standards must be worn at all times, according to NASA.
It’s always important to check the glasses to see if they are free from scratches, dents, and other marks that can diminish the protection.
Camera’s Can Also Be Used
If you’re lucky enough to be in the viewing path of the eclipse, you can also use your cell phone camera or a regular camera lense to view it through.
As well, there are special telescopes and binoculars with special-purpose solar filters to protect from eye damage.
