The annular solar eclipse of 2024 will occur on Wednesday, October 2. During this celestial event, the Moon will appear smaller than the Sun, allowing a bright ring of sunlight to remain visible around its darkened center, creating the iconic “Ring of Fire” effect. The eclipse will last for over six hours, beginning at 9:13 PM IST and ending at 3:17 AM IST the following day.
A solar eclipse will take place on October 2, 2024, during Sarvapitri Amavasya. Its astrological importance is significant despite limited visibility. Recommended remedies include ritual bathing, mantra recitation, donating jaggery and feeding the needy, consuming satvik food, and drinking water from a copper vessel to mitigate adverse effects.
Visibility of the Eclipse
The “Ring of Fire” eclipse will be visible across parts of the Pacific Ocean, southern Chile, and southern Argentina. Unfortunately, due to the timing of the eclipse occurring at night, it will not be visible from India. As a result, the Sutak Kaal period, which is traditionally observed during eclipses in India, will not be applicable.
How Long Will the Second Solar Eclipse of 2024 Last?
According to Indian time, the solar eclipse occurring on Sarvapitri Amavasya 2024 will start at 9:13 pm and will end at 3:17 am.
Will the Sutak Period Be Valid In India?
The solar eclipse occurring in October will not be seen in India and that’s why, the Sutak period will not be valid as well. According to the religious scriptures, Sutak is an inauspicious period and it is prohibited to perform any religious practice during this period. The Sutak period of solar eclipse lasts for 12 hours while the lunar eclipse lasts for 9 hours.
Dos and Don’ts During a Solar Eclipse:
- Avoid oil massages: It is traditionally advised to refrain from activities like oil massages during the eclipse period.
- Avoid cutting hair, beard, or nails: These personal grooming activities should be avoided during the eclipse.
- Limit travel: If possible, it is suggested to avoid traveling during the eclipse.
- Protect food: Place Kusha grass or Tulsi leaves in food items like milk, curd, ghee, pickles, and condiments to protect them during the eclipse.
- Take medication if needed: If you are feeling unwell, don’t hesitate to take the necessary medicines.
- Pregnancy precautions: Pregnant women are traditionally advised to avoid activities like sewing during the eclipse and Sutak periods, as well as avoid sleeping during this time.
- Engage in spiritual practices: You can recite religious scriptures or chant mantras during the eclipse.
- Fresh water: After the eclipse ends, it is suggested to fill fresh drinking water.
Remedies to Perform During a Solar Eclipse:
- Recite Rahu-Ketu or Surya Mantras: Chanting the Rahu-Ketu mantras during a solar eclipse is believed to be spiritually beneficial. Additionally, reciting the Surya mantra is also considered auspicious.
- Remember God and Perform Good Deeds: It is recommended to remember God during the eclipse and engage in auspicious activities, such as making charitable donations.
- Donate Wheat: Donating wheat during a solar eclipse is thought to bring financial benefits, along with respect and honor.
- Yoga and Meditation: Practicing yoga and meditation during the eclipse is favorable, as the Sun is associated with the soul in astrology.
- Take a Bath After the Eclipse: It is important to take a bath after the eclipse to cleanse oneself of any negative energy.
Safety and Viewing
For those in regions where the eclipse is visible, it’s important to follow proper safety precautions when viewing the eclipse directly, as looking at the Sun without protection can cause serious eye damage.
What is the ‘Ring of Fire’ Solar Eclipse?
According to NASA, this occurs when the Moon passes in front of the Sun but appears too small to completely cover it, leaving a visible ring of sunlight around the Moon. This is due to the Moon’s elliptical orbit around the Earth, which causes it to appear slightly smaller or larger depending on its distance from Earth. At its farthest point, or apogee, the Moon looks smaller, creating the “Ring of Fire” during an eclipse.
When is the next solar eclipse after that?
There won’t be any total solar eclipses in 2025. Following the one in 2024, the next total solar eclipse will happen on August 12, 2026. People in the Arctic, Greenland, Iceland, and parts of northern Spain will be able to witness totality.
Stunning Images taken by NASA
