The final solar eclipse of 2023, also known as Suraj Grahan, is set to occur in Pakistan on October 14. This celestial event will be the second and last solar eclipse for the country in that year.
The annular eclipse is expected to begin at 8:04 pm Pakistan Standard Time (PST) and conclude at 1:55 pm PST, lasting for a total duration of six hours and 51 minutes.
Last Solar Eclipse in Pakistan 2023
It’s important to note that this eclipse will not be visible from Pakistan. The next opportunity to witness a solar eclipse in the country will not come until April 28, 2024.
A solar eclipse happens when the moon moves between the Earth and the sun, blocking sunlight from reaching our planet. During an annular eclipse, the moon covers the sun’s center, leaving its outer edges visible and creating a “ring of fire” effect.
Suraj Grahan in Pakistan 2023
While the eclipse won’t be visible in Pakistan, it will be observable in other parts of the world. The path of the eclipse will cross North America, including Mexico, the United States, and Canada. The first location in continental North America to experience totality will be Mexico’s Pacific coast at around 11:07 a.m. PDT, weather permitting.
Other regions where the eclipse will be visible include Europe, Belize, Guatemala, Honduras, Nicaragua, Costa Rica, Panama, Colombia, and the Americas—from Alaska to Argentina. However, the eclipse will not be visible in other Asian countries, including India.
Suraj Grahan in Pakistan 14 October 2023
Viewing a solar eclipse directly without proper protection can cause damage to the eyes, specifically the cornea. Therefore, those planning to watch the event are advised to use special equipment such as solar glasses, darkened welder glasses, or a pinhole camera. Homemade solar eclipse viewing glasses can also be used.
Despite the eclipse not being visible in Pakistan, interested individuals can still observe the event through live streams provided by space agencies and certain observatories. NASA, for instance, will be broadcasting the event on its website, YouTube channel, and Periscope account. There are also apps available that will provide live coverage of the solar eclipse in Pakistan and other countries.