Explained: What is ‘ring of fire’ Solar Eclipse set to occur in October? Know all about this astronomical event

Millions of people in America will be able to view a solar eclipse on October 14, in which, weather permitting, the moon will be seen passing in front of the sun. The route of the eclipse is expected to pass through areas of the United States, Mexico, and a number of Central and South American nations.

A solar eclipse occurs when the moon travels between Earth and the sun, obstructing the view of the sun's face along a narrow swath of Earth as it passes. The one on October 14 is what is known as an "annular solar eclipse." 

This celestial phenomenon, often known as the "ring of fire," takes place when the moon moves in front of the sun, partially hiding its face. On October 14, there will be an eclipse that can be seen from many different locations.

During an annular solar eclipse, the moon will be farther from Earth than usual, so it won't fully block out the sun. Instead, it will seem like a dark disk superimposed on the sun's larger, brighter face in the sky. 

As a result, the eclipse will briefly appear to be a ring of fire encircling the moon's dark disc. On April 8, 2024, a total solar eclipse is scheduled to pass over Mexico, the United States, and Canada.

When and which countries will see the ‘Ring of Fire’ eclipse?
According to NASA, North, Central, and South America will witness this event. The eclipse will begin at 9:13 a.m. PDT in Oregon, United States, and will continue through California, Nevada, Utah, Arizona, New Mexico, and Texas.

The path then crosses over parts of Mexico, Guatemala, Belize, Honduras, Nicaragua, Panama, Colombia and Brazil before ending at sunset in the Atlantic Ocean. People in much larger parts of North America, Central America and South America will be able to see less
obscuring of the sun - still an impressive sight.

It is to be noted that looking directly at the bright sun is harmful to the eyes. Experts advise people to watch it by wearing specialized eye protection designed for solar viewing. Regular sunglasses are not sufficient for viewing the sun.