Annular solar eclipse to pass directly over Utah in October

Posted on Sep 18, 2023

FILE – Annular eclipse from May 20, 2012. (Photo: NASA/Bill Dunford)

 

SALT LAKE CITY (KUTV) — The path of an annular solar eclipse will cross through Utah in October.

It will move diagonally directly over central and southern parts of the state, but all of Utah is expected to be able to see it with maximum obstruction of the sun.

According to NASA, here are the phases you will be able to view in Utah during the event on the morning of Saturday, Oct. 14:

  • Partial eclipse begins: 9:09 a.m.
  • Annularity begins: 10:26 a.m.
  • Maximum: 10:28 a.m.
  • Annularity ends: 10:31 a.m.
  • Partial Eclipse ends: 11:56 a.m.

In the U.S., the eclipse will begin in Oregon and end in Texas.

However, it is expected that people will be able to see it in other parts of North America along with many countries in South and Central America. Ability to see it will also depend on cloud coverage that day.

MORE: How to spot newly discovered Comet Nishimura in Utah, last visible over 400 years ago

An annular solar eclipse, often referred to as a “ring of fire,” occurs when the moon passes between the sun and Earth while it is at its farthest point from Earth.

Because of its distance, the moon does not completely cover the sun. Therefore, anyone who plans to view it should be prepared with eye protection.

There are three other types of possible eclipses — a total solar eclipse, a partial solar eclipse, and a hybrid solar eclipse.

A total solar eclipse, the next kind that will be visible in the U.S., will occur on April 8, 2024.

The next annular solar eclipse visible in the U.S. will be on Feb. 5, 2046.

Post courtesy of KUTV.com

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