Solar Eclipse
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Solar eclipses occur when the moon's shadow sweeps across the face of the Earth. The shadow usually moves from west to east at a speed of 2,000 miles per hour. People that observe this type of eclipse might see one of three different kinds. A total eclipse occurs when the moon completely blocks out the sun. An annular eclipse takes place when the moon only darkens the middle of the sun leaving a bright ring around the edges. The last kind is a partial eclipse which is seen when the moon covers only part of the sun. |
| Unbelievable beauty.
A total eclipse happens to be one of the most impressive sights known to man. At the moment of total eclipse, a halo flashes into view around the darkened sun. This halo is the sun's outer atmosphere, which is called the corona. They only last at most about 7 minutes, but on the average about 2.5 minutes. A total eclipse can only be viewed by certain parts of the world, these places lie in the path of totality. This path is only about 170 miles wide. Your own protection. Under no circumstances should a solar eclipse be viewed directly with the naked eye. Invisible infrared rays are given off by the sun that can damage your eyes. Only when using a pinhole protector, or similar device should you view this phenomena. |
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