Fans of eclipses are preparing for one of the most visually impressive on June 21, 2020. Just one day after the Northern Hemisphere’s Summer Solstice, there will be an annular solar eclipse, which makes the sun and moon look like a ring of fire.

A Ring of Fire Eclipse Is Set to Appear After the Summer Solstice

Ring of Fire

The annular solar eclipse is given the nickname ‘Ring of Fire’ as the moon won’t fully block out the sun. That is because the moon is at its furthest point from the Earth, so when it moves in front of the sun, something special happens. The sun will look like a ring of fire surrounding the moon during the annular solar eclipse.

Where to See the Eclipse

The Northern Hemisphere will be fortunate enough to witness the annular solar eclipse, but not everywhere will get a great view. A path of totality will begin in Central Africa and head toward the Arabian Peninsula, to China, and through to the Pacific. While those places will have the best view, many other parts of the world can enjoy a partial eclipse. Most people in Asia, Africa, Northern Australia, and Southern and Eastern Europe will witness part of the ring of fire.

A Ring of Fire Eclipse Is Set to Appear After the Summer Solstice

When to Look Up

The eclipse will begin in Eastern Africa at dawn, with the full eclipse occurring an hour later. The moon will remain in front of the sun for around four hours, with the eclipse being last spotted in the Pacific Ocean. If you don’t live in the path of this eclipse, there will be another on June 21, 2021, with Canada and Russia in the path of the ring of fire.

Don’t forget to keep your eyes peeled to the sky on June 21 to see the annular solar eclipse. While looking at the sky, make sure to use filters on cameras, binoculars, and telescopes or your own eclipse glasses to protect your eyes.