Samuel Wilson 
On October 14th, an intriguing celestial event will grace the skies as the moon partially obscures the sun, creating an annular solar eclipse and transforming our star into a mesmerizing “ring of fire.”
This captivating “ring of fire” phenomenon will be observable to those situated along the 125-mile-wide (200-kilometer) path of annularity, stretching from Oregon to Texas and spanning ten different countries. For those positioned just outside this path, a partial solar eclipse will be visible, where the moon will seem to take a delightful “bite” out of the sun.
Our comprehensive guide for the 2023 annular eclipse provides all the essential information you need to fully appreciate this upcoming celestial spectacle. If you prefer to follow the eclipse from the comfort of your own screen, we’ve compiled a list of some of the best free live streams in our “how to watch the annular solar eclipse” guide. Additionally, NASA has unveiled an interactive map for those eager to explore and track the eclipse down to the precise second.
While countless individuals will either travel to the path of annularity or watch the event online, there are those who will actively avoid the annular solar eclipse.
In Navajo culture, an eclipse signifies a fresh start. According to Navajo Traditional Teachings, the Navajo word for a solar eclipse, “jóhonaa’éí daaztsą́,” translates to “the death of the sun.” During a solar eclipse, many Navajo people opt to stay indoors, engage in fasting, and offer prayers. When the sun reemerges, it symbolizes rebirth and is considered an opportune time to make resolutions. For a deeper understanding of Navajo cosmology, you can explore valuable resources from the Exploratorium.
Due to the Navajo cultural beliefs associated with the eclipse, all Navajo Tribal Parks will be closed from 8 a.m. to 1 p.m. MDT on October 14, 2023. This includes the Monument Valley Navajo Tribal Park, Four Corners Monument Navajo Tribal Park, and sections of the Tséyi’ Diné Heritage Area within the Canyon de Chelly National Monument.
For scientists, the annular solar eclipse on October 14 serves as a valuable rehearsal for the upcoming total solar eclipse slated for April 8, 2024. Solar eclipses offer atmospheric and heliospheric scientists a unique opportunity to study the sun’s outer atmosphere—the corona—during the brief moments when the moon almost entirely obscures the sun.
These two impending solar eclipses have scientists buzzing with excitement, as they occur during an exceptionally active phase in the current solar cycle, known as solar cycle 25. Solar activity is on the rise as it progresses toward the predicted “solar maximum” in 2024. The solar cycle follows an approximately 11-year pattern of solar activity driven by the sun’s magnetic field.
A crucial reminder: NEVER gaze directly at the sun. To safely observe this solar eclipse, always use solar filters. Whether your location experiences a partial or annular solar eclipse, the safety precautions remain the same. Observers should wear solar eclipse glasses, and cameras, telescopes, and binoculars must always have solar filters placed in front of their lenses.
For comprehensive guidance on safe solar observations, refer to our “how to observe the sun safely” guide.
But the eclipse extravaganza doesn’t conclude with the annular eclipse on October 14! It precedes a partial lunar eclipse scheduled for Saturday, October 28, which will be visible across much of the Eastern hemisphere, including Europe, Africa, Asia, Antarctica, and Oceania. Lunar eclipses transpire when Earth positions itself between the sun and the moon, casting a shadow on the lunar surface. During a partial lunar eclipse, only a portion of the moon enters Earth’s shadow, contributing to the celestial spectacle.
Disclaimer: The views, suggestions, and opinions expressed here are the sole responsibility of the experts. No Dive Digest journalist was involved in the writing and production of this article.