Solar Eclipse Countdown: Get Ready!

A solar eclipse is one of nature's most spectacular sights. When the moon passes between the sun and the earth, blocking out the sun's light, the sky darkens and the sun's corona becomes visible. The next solar eclipse coming up is an annular eclipse on October 14, 2023. Here is everything you need to know to get ready for this amazing astronomical event!

How Solar Eclipses are Predicted

Astronomers can accurately predict when and where solar eclipses will occur through careful calculations of the motions of the sun, moon and Earth. This is possible because the orbits of Earth around the sun and the moon around Earth are well understood and can be modeled mathematically.

To predict solar eclipses, astronomers first calculate the precise positions of the sun and moon relative to Earth for any given date and time. They take into account perturbations to the orbits from the gravitational effects of other solar system bodies. Astronomers can determine if the sun, moon and Earth will be aligned to cause an eclipse.

By generating models of the moon's shadow cones and plotting them on Earth's surface, the path of an eclipse becomes clear. The characteristics of the eclipse depend on exactly how the three bodies align. If the alignment is perfect, a total eclipse occurs. If the moon is farther away in its orbit, it cannot completely cover the sun's disk and an annular eclipse results.

The timing and trajectory of the moon's shadow can be charted to determine where and when it will fall on Earth. Modern software allows precise eclipse predictions over thousands of years into the past and future. Although small changes in the orbits of the moon and Earth accumulate over time, astronomers can still determine exactly when and where eclipses occurred millennia ago and pinpoint ones far into the future.

The predictability of eclipses testifies to the ordered clockwork motion of the solar system. After predicting the October 2023 eclipse, astronomers have already calculated the paths of many others that will awe skywatchers across the planet in the years to come.

Annular Solar Eclipse on October 14, 2023

On October 14, 2023, an annular solar eclipse will occur. This happens when the moon is at apogee, its farthest point from Earth, and appears slightly smaller than the sun in the sky. During an annular eclipse, the moon passes in front of the sun but does not fully cover it. This leaves a "ring of fire" visible around the moon's silhouette.

The path of annularity for this eclipse will begin in Oregon, traversing the United States through Nevada, Utah, Arizona, New Mexico and Texas before entering Mexico and Central America. Some of the major cities and landmarks along the path include Crater Lake, Canyonlands National Park, Albuquerque, and Corpus Christi. The eclipse will eventually end in the Atlantic Ocean after passing over northern South America.

Where to View the Annular Eclipse

To experience the "ring of fire" effect of the annular eclipse, you'll need to be within the path of annularity which is about 60-70 miles wide. Places like Newport, Oregon to Bluff, Utah and Albuquerque, New Mexico will see over 2 minutes of annularity if skies are clear. Other cities farther from the centerline will still see a partial solar eclipse.

Outside the path, a partial solar eclipse will be visible across North and Central America and parts of South America. To check if your location will experience the eclipse, see this interactive map.

Get Ready for the Big Event

Here are some tips to prepare for the upcoming annular solar eclipse:

• Get eclipse viewing glasses - Special solar filters or eclipse glasses are a must for safely viewing the eclipse. Regular sunglasses are not enough to protect your eyes. Be sure to get ISO certified eclipse glasses that block 100% of harmful ultraviolet and infrared rays.
• Check the weather forecast - Clear skies are key for good eclipse viewing. Monitor forecasts in your area in the days leading up to the eclipse. Be prepared to relocate if needed to get a clear view.
• Find an optimal viewing spot - Scout out locations along the eclipse path with a clear unobstructed view of the western sky where the eclipse will unfold. Arrive early to secure a good vantage point.
• Use a solar filter on cameras/telescopes - Any optics you point at the sun during the eclipse need proper solar filters. These will allow you to photograph and observe the eclipse safely.
• Visit the Eclipse Timer website - This free website makes tracking the eclipse easy. Simply enter your location to get countdowns and eclipse timing information specific to where you'll be observing it.
• Learn what to look for - Annularity only lasts for a couple minutes so know the key eclipse events. Partial phases occur before and after the "ring of fire", marking the start and end of annularity.

Enjoy Nature's Spectacle Safely

With proper eye protection and preparation, the October 2023 annular solar eclipse will be an incredible sight. As the moon moves in front of the sun, remember you're observing an amazing natural phenomenon occurring just as astronomers predicted.