The year 2023 is going to be an exciting year for sky watchers in India, as the country is going to witness a rare celestial event – a total solar eclipse. The solar eclipse will occur on April 20, 2023, and will be visible from some parts of India, including the states of Tamil Nadu, Kerala, Karnataka, Andhra Pradesh, and Odisha.
If you are planning to witness this rare astronomical event, here’s what you need to know to make the most of it.
What is a Solar Eclipse?
A solar eclipse occurs when the moon passes between the sun and the earth, blocking the sun’s rays and casting a shadow on the earth. During a total solar eclipse, the moon completely covers the sun, and the sky becomes dark, and the stars and planets become visible.
Where to Watch the Solar Eclipse?
The 2023 solar eclipse will be visible from the southern parts of India, including the states of Tamil Nadu, Kerala, Karnataka, Andhra Pradesh, and Odisha. The best places to witness the eclipse are the coastal regions of these states, as the eclipse will be visible for a longer duration.
In Tamil Nadu, the eclipse will be visible from the towns of Rameshwaram, Tuticorin, and Kanyakumari. In Kerala, the eclipse will be visible from Kochi, Kollam, and Thiruvananthapuram. In Karnataka, the eclipse will be visible from Mangalore and Udupi. In Andhra Pradesh, the eclipse will be visible from Visakhapatnam and Srikakulam. In Odisha, the eclipse will be visible from Bhubaneswar and Puri.
When to Watch the Solar Eclipse?
The eclipse will start at around 8:13 am and will last for about three hours, with the total eclipse lasting for about two minutes and ten seconds. The duration of the eclipse will vary depending on the location. The eclipse will end at around 11:14 am.
How to Watch the Solar Eclipse?
It is essential to take precautions while watching the solar eclipse, as looking directly at the sun can cause permanent damage to the eyes. The safest way to watch the eclipse is by using special eclipse glasses or a solar filter. These glasses and filters are readily available in the market and can be purchased online or from local stores.
Another way to watch the eclipse is by using a pinhole camera. To make a pinhole camera, take a cardboard box and make a small hole in one end. Cover the other end with a white paper and point the hole towards the sun. The image of the eclipse will be projected on the white paper.
Conclusion
The 2023 solar eclipse is a rare astronomical event that should not be missed. By following the above guidelines, you can witness this celestial event safely and make the most of this once-in-a-lifetime experience. So, mark your calendars and get ready to witness the magic of the solar eclipse.
