Total solar eclipse to illuminate skies on Sunday

WEB DESK: A rare total solar eclipse is expected to occur on Sunday, a celestial event not to be witnessed again until 2044. However, the phenomenon might not be visible to everyone.

During a total solar eclipse, the moon moves directly between the Earth and the sun, completely blocking the sun’s light and causing temporary darkness in the observable regions. While the “path of totality” is relatively narrow, those within it experience the sun being entirely obscured by the moon.

As the sky darkens significantly during a total solar eclipse, observers have the opportunity to see the bright glow of the sun’s corona – its outer atmosphere – surrounding the darkened outline of the moon. The darkness usually lasts for only a few minutes before the sun gradually reappears, signaling the end of the “totality”.

Read more: Understanding total solar eclipse: path and viewing locations

For those fortunate enough to be within the path of totality, the eclipse promises some beautiful views, including Baily’s Beads and the “diamond ring effect”. Baily’s Beads occur just before totality begins when sunlight filters through the moon’s mountains. This phenomenon is named after astronomer Francis Baily. Baily’s Beads is brief and precedes the appearance of the diamond ring.

Meanwhile, the diamond ring effect emerges when a single bright spot remains along the moon’s edge as the last bits of sunlight pass through. It marks the beginning or end of totality and offers a view often compared to “a ring decorated with sparkling diamonds.” Some observers very rarely might be able witness a double diamond ring.

While those outside the path of totality will only see a partial eclipse, they can still experience a partial dimming of the sun’s light.

According to the Pakistan Meteorological Department (PMD), the first solar eclipse of 2024 is set to occur on April 8 and April 9.

Read more: Total solar eclipse next month, after 50 years

However, people in Pakistan will not be able to witness a total solar eclipse as the celestial event will not be visible here.