A celestial spectacle, known as the "ring of fire" eclipse, is anticipated to grace the skies of the United States, Central, and South America on October 14, according to Allie Yang, a National Geographic editor and space expert.
In an email to Fox News Digital, Yang explained that the annular solar eclipse, or "ring of fire," will be visible in western states such as Oregon, Nevada, Utah, New Mexico, Texas, and parts of California, Idaho, Colorado, and Arizona.
While the entire contiguous United States will experience a partial eclipse, the full "ring of fire" effect will only be visible in certain locations, Yang noted. This phenomenon occurs when the moon passes in front of the sun, appearing slightly smaller and creating a "sliver of sun in the shape of a ring" for those fortunate enough to be in the right place at the right time.
Although annular eclipses are not particularly rare, it is unusual for the path of the eclipse to cross the U.S., Yang stated. The last time the "ring of fire" eclipse was observed in the U.S. was in 2012. Following this weekend's event, the next opportunity to witness this spectacle won't come until 2039.
Yang emphasized the importance of eye protection when viewing eclipses. "Even a sliver of sun, as well see in this years eclipse, will scorch your eyes, especially because your pupils are dilated in the relative darkness," she cautioned. "Irreversible damage can happen in seconds." To safely observe the sun, she recommended using ISO-certified eclipse glasses or an indirect viewing method, such as pinhole projection.
However, Yang pointed out that the experience of an eclipse extends beyond visual observation. It offers a "totally multisensory experience," she said. "If youre outside, you might hear nighttime animals come out. You may feel the coolness of the sun being blocked, and its warmth returning as the moon passes the sun."
Yang also noted that radio hobbyists often listen for changes in radio frequencies during an eclipse due to its impact on the ionosphere, our upper atmosphere. "This is where radio and GPS signals travel, so both can be affected in an eclipse," she explained.
In terms of scientific advancements, Yang outlined how scientists will launch rockets and balloons before, during, and after the eclipse to measure changes in temperature, pressure, and ionization. "Data gathered from this eclipse will help inform what research is done on April 8, 2024, when there will be a total eclipse," she said.
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