4 minute read
Eclipses
In ancient times, eclipses were often interpreted by various cultures as omens or divine messages. For instance, the Batammaliba people of northern Togo and Benin believed that a solar eclipse was the result of a conflict between the sun and the moon. Meanwhile, ancient Chinese mythology depicted a dragon devouring the sun to explain this celestial event, prompting people to play drums to fend off the mythical creature. However, not all societies viewed eclipses negatively. In fact, some considered them moments of celestial creation. With the advancement of astronomical knowledge and detailed scientific explanations over time, these myths and interpretations are gradually fading into obscurity.
Eclipses occur due to the positioning of the sun, the moon and Earth in their orbits. When the moon passes between the sun and Earth, it casts a shadow on Earth, resulting in a solar eclipse where the sun’s light is temporarily blocked. Solar eclipses go through different phases: a total eclipse, where the sun, the moon and Earth are perfectly aligned with the moon, covering the entire sun’s disc and revealing the sun’s outer atmosphere or corona; a partial eclipse, where the three objects are in misalignment, and only a portion of the sun is obscured; and an annular solar eclipse, when the moon covers the centre of the sun but not its entirety, creating a ring of fire around the moon. Solar eclipses happen during the new moon phase and are only visible to those within the shadow’s path. However, safety precautions must be followed when viewing any phase of a solar eclipse to prevent eye damage, including the use of approved solar filters or viewing devices.
In contrast, a lunar eclipse happens when Earth positions itself between the sun and the moon, casting its shadow onto the lunar surface. This phenomenon results in a reddish hue appearing on the moon during the eclipse. Similar to solar eclipses, lunar eclipses come in different forms. A total lunar eclipse occurs when the moon is entirely covered in Earth’s shadow, whereas a partial lunar eclipse occurs when only a portion of the moon’s surface is obscured due to an imperfect alignment of the moon, Earth and the sun. Additionally, a penumbral eclipse takes place when the moon passes through Earth’s penumbral shadow, resulting in a more subtle dimming of the moon’s brightness. Lunar eclipses occur during a full moon and are a popular spectacle for sky gazers.
Eclipses are predicted using precise mathematical calculations based on the orbits of the Earth, moon and sun. These calculations, combined with astronomical technology, enable astronomers to predict the timing and locations of solar and lunar eclipses. Observing eclipses is crucial for studying the interactions between the sun, the moon and Earth, and it has provided valuable insights into their orbital mechanics, gravitational effects and the properties of their respective atmospheres. Scientists use a variety of tools and technologies to study eclipses, including ground-based telescopes equipped with specialised filters and instruments, solar observatories in space such as NASA’s Solar Dynamics Observatory (SDO), and high-resolution imaging techniques. Recent discoveries from solar eclipses include the confirmation of Einstein’s theory of general relativity through the observation of gravitational lensing effects during the 2017 total solar eclipse.
The most anticipated total eclipse of this year is set to occur on 8 April. This eclipse, which will be visible in North America, follows a penumbral lunar eclipse on 28 March. Although these are two different eclipses, they fall within the same eclipse season. Several other eclipses are also slated to take place throughout the year, including a partial lunar eclipse in September and an annular solar eclipse set for early October.
In today’s world, eclipses continue to bring people together in shared experiences of wonder and discovery.
In today’s world, eclipses continue to bring people together in shared experiences of wonder and discovery. Whether viewed through scientific instruments or celebrated in cultural rituals, eclipses remind us of the interconnectedness of humanity and the natural world. As technology advances, our understanding and appreciation of eclipses deepen, allowing us to witness these events with greater clarity and precision.
