An annular solar eclipse occurs when the Moon passes between the Earth and the Sun, blocking out most but not quite all of the Sun's light.
It's called an annular eclipse because just a thin ring, or annulus, of light remains visible.An annular eclipse only happens when the moon is at its furthest away point from Earth. In perspective to us on Earth, it doesn't completely block out the light from the sun so instead you get this incredible ring of fire around the moon.
The path of the October 14 annular solar eclipse will span a wide area, offering different viewing experiences depending on your location. Those within the path of annularity will witness the full ring of fire effect, while those in nearby regions will see a partial eclipse. With an annular eclipse because the sunlight isn't completely blocked out, you have to use eclipse glasses no matter where you are.
While witnessing a solar eclipse is an awe-inspiring experience, it's essential to remember that looking directly at the Sun, even during an eclipse, can cause severe eye damage or blindness.
Anyone gazing skyward should only do so with the aid of protective viewing equipment, such as approved eclipse glasses or a pinhole projector.Viewing any part of the bright Sun through a camera lens, binoculars, or a telescope without a special-purpose solar filter secured over the front of the optics can cause severe eye injury.
