Today, April 20, is seeing the first solar eclipse of 2023, which is referred as a “hybrid solar eclipse” due to the Moon’s blocking of the Sun.
As the shadow of the moon descends on Earth, the highly anticipated space activity is providing the entire world with an incredible spectacle as the hybrid sun eclipse changes from a total sun eclipse to an annular (ring-shaped) eclipse.
Rare events called eclipses occur when the moon, sun, and earth line up in a cosmic setting to cast a shadow or block sunlight.
PMD Announcement on Solar Eclipse
However, the phenomena of hybrid solar eclipses, which happens just a few times every century, is highly unique.
Pakistanis will not be able to view the phenomenon in person, but they can still watch it live online.
The Pakistan Meteorological Department (PMD) has also verified the predicted eclipse sighting.
According to a brief announcement by the PMD, on April 20, according to Pakistan Standard Time, the eclipse will begin in the early morning and terminate just before noon, however it won’t be visible anywhere in the nation.
Below are the times for each of the sun eclipse’s phases:
- Eclipse will begin at 6:34am PST
- Total eclipse will be in place at 7:37am PST
- Eclipse will peak at 9:17am PST
- Ends at 11:59am PST
The uncommon sun eclipse will partially see in some locations around the world and entirely in others, according to the PMD. Southern and eastern Asia, Australia, Antarctica, and regions over the Indian and Pacific oceans will all be able to see the event.
According to a report by Popular Science, Astronomers Without Borders, a US-based organisation, has declared April to be “Global Astronomy Month” since the month will be filled with breathtaking sky views.
The ring of fire from the April 20 solar eclipse will be visible briefly in the Indian Ocean, but by the time it reaches Western Australia, the moon will have totally blocked out the sun, causing around nine minutes of darkness during the day.
However, the US will not be able to watch this sun eclipse. However, a few months later, in October, the western US will be able to see another solar eclipse.
To read our blog on “Observations of ancient moon reveals ‘mysterious’ volcanic explosions,” click here.
