Ring Eclipse in Roodepoort

Spring has arrived and it’s bringing a special sight for South Africans. From 09.30am this morning until midday, Roodepoort residents will witness a partial solar eclipse.

The moon will pass in front of the sun, creating a ring of sunlight. This phenomenon will be visible from southern and central African countries

When the moon creates a ring of sunlight during an eclipse instead of completely blocking the solar disc, it’s known as an annular eclipse or ‘ring of fire’ eclipse.

Solar eclipses occur when the moon comes between the Earth and the sun, lining up with the sun as seen by spectators on Earth. In a total solar eclipse, the moon lines up perfectly with the sun and blocks out all light. But in an annular eclipse, the moon doesn’t completely cover the sun; this is because the orbits of the earth and moon are elliptical (that is, egg-shaped).

According to the National Geographic’s website, even though the solar face will seem to be covered up, one should never look directly at the sun without proper eye protection. If one is using a telescope or camera, astronomers recommend using a professionally manufactured solar filter to avoid damaging ultraviolet and infrared radiation. You can also watch with special eclipse viewing glasses that reduce the sun’s brightness and filter out its harmful rays.

Do you perhaps have more information pertaining to this story? Email us at roodepoortrecord@caxton.co.za (remember to include your contact details) or phone us on 011 955 1130.

For free daily local news on the West Rand, also visit our sister newspaper websites Randfontein Herald, Krugersdorp News and Get It Joburg West Magazine

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