Almost once a year, the unique phenomenon of celestial beauty called the total solar eclipse takes place in different parts of the world. The next opportunity to enjoy this captivating celestial event is the total solar eclipse in November 2012.
What is a total solar eclipse?
A solar eclipse is an astronomical event, in which the Moon is found between the Earth and the Sun and partly or totally covers the Sun from observers on the Earth.
This time, Moon will pass in front of the Sun covering it totally, which as a result will make it possible for us to see the eclipse in the outer layer of the solar atmosphere. It is an event of great scientific interest since it determines the data of the Space Weather (telecommunications, space missions, GPS systems, etc.).
The total solar eclipse in November 2012
The eclipse will take place on November 13 and reach its maximum phase at 22:13 GMT, the duration of which will be 4 minutes 2 seconds.
The areas that will get the best line of sight are the middle and subtropical latitudes of the Southern Hemisphere. Observers in the southern part of the Pacific Ocean – New Zealand, Indonesia, Oceania, and other countries – will be able to enjoy the partial eclipse,
At the same time, the ‘capital’ of the solar eclipse will be Cairns city of Queensland in Northern Australia. It is the only major city where it will be possible to see the Sun, totally covered by the Moon.
Earlier this year, a similar astronomical even took place. The solar eclipse called ‘ring of fire‘ was observable in a limited number of areas of the globe in May 2012. The total solar eclipse in November 2012 will give the opportunity to more amateur astronomers around the world to enjoy the beauty of the skies.
If you are located in the areas where the total solar eclipse will be visible, please don’t forget to take your precautions before skywatching!
