On October 3, 2024, an annular solar eclipse captivated viewers in parts of South America, particularly Easter Island and regions in southern Chile and Argentina. This rare event, known as the 'ring of fire,' occurs when the moon is too far from Earth to completely cover the sun, creating a bright ring of light around the moon.
The eclipse was visible for just a few minutes in its annular phase, with an estimated 175,000 people living in the path of totality. Locals and tourists gathered outdoors to witness the spectacle, celebrating with music and chants as they donned special eyewear to safely view the phenomenon.
Diego Hernandez from the Buenos Aires planetarium explained that this phenomenon occurs when the moon is slightly farther away from Earth than usual, making it impossible for it to fully obscure the sun. The event provided a stunning visual experience, with many describing it as a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity.
While the annular eclipse was visible in select locations, a partial eclipse could be seen across a broader area, including parts of Antarctica and Hawaii.