On October 14, 2023, an annular solar eclipse will happen in parts of the United States, Mexico, and South and Central America. Although Alton, Missouri is not in the viewing area whatsoever, some may want to travel to New Mexico or Southern Texas for the viewing. This is a smaller event than the Great North American Eclipse which will come in 2024.
Annular Eclipse?
An annular eclipse is when the moon does pass between the sun and the earth. However, the moon is farther from the earth, it does not totally block out the sun [1]. This makes the view appear to be a dark disk in front of a bright plate. This is often referred to as a ‘ring of fire.’
Who Sees It?
Weather permitting, the eclipse will be visible beginning in southern Oregon and continuing to Nevada, Utah, Arizona, Colorado, New Mexico, and Texas. Thereafter, it hits the Gulf of Mexico and continues south to Mexico and Central America. You can trace its path here.
Additionally, all of the United States will experience a partial eclipse, weather permitting. Alaska, as well as Canada, Greenland, and Western Africa, will be able to see at least a partial eclipse.
What Is The Date?
The date this eclipse happens is October 14, 2023. Eugene, Oregon experiences the eclipse at 8:06 am, while San Antonio, Texas will not view the beginning until 10:23 am.
How To View?
If you are in the area, this is considered an eclipse. Therefore, one does need to wear eclipse glasses or use an alternative method to see the blocking.
This eclipse is merely a precursor to the Great North American Eclipse in which Alton and other Eastern states will experience a full solar eclipse. This happens on April 8, 2024. Many families and businesses will practice their viewing on this annular eclipse, before watching the total solar eclipse here.
Notes:
- ^https://solarsystem.nasa.gov/eclipses/future-eclipses/eclipse-2023/ (go back ↩)
