Annular Solar Eclipse Today, October 2

A rare annular solar eclipse, often referred to as a 'ring of fire,' will occur today, October 2, 2024, visible primarily from parts of South America, the Pacific Ocean, and Antarctica. This celestial event happens when the moon, at its farthest point from Earth, passes between the Earth and the Sun, leaving a ring of the Sun visible. Key viewing locations include Easter Island, southern Chile, and Argentina. The peak phase will be visible from Easter Island around 3:03 p.m. EDT and will last up to 7 minutes and 25 seconds in Argentina. Due to its limited path of visibility, only an estimated 175,000 people will see the full annular eclipse, though millions more will experience a partial view. It is crucial for viewers to use proper eye protection, such as solar filters, to safely observe the eclipse.