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Bruce Murray Space Image Library

Annular eclipse, May 20, 2012

Annular eclipse, May 20, 2012
Annular eclipse, May 20, 2012 A solar eclipse may be annular if the Moon is relatively far from Earth on its elliptical orbit at the time of the eclipse. The Moon's apparent diameter is smaller than the Sun's, and for viewers in the right spot a "ring of fire" may show around the occulting disk of the Moon. Malcolm Park

Park wrote about taking this photo: "The Annular Eclipse of 2012 was spectacular! In perfect conditions at Lipan Point on the South Rim of the Grand Canyon, the sky was clear and blue. Crowds gathered along the South Rim to watch this unique celestial event. Green flash witnessed visually and on camera, beading at 3rd contact, and the incredible sight of the moon entirely surrounded by the sun from behind. What an incredible place to see this amazing eclipse!"