The year 2023 is expected to bring some significant astronomical events, and one of the most awaited ones is the Surya Grahan or Solar Eclipse. A Surya Grahan occurs when the Moon comes between the Sun and the Earth, blocking the sunlight and casting a shadow on Earth. This phenomenon is a rare occurrence and attracts the attention of astronomers and sky gazers worldwide.
The upcoming Surya Grahan is scheduled to occur on March 20, 2023, and will be visible in parts of North Africa, Western Europe, and Western Asia. The eclipse will begin at 9:15 am Universal Time (UT) and end at 12:05 pm UT, lasting for a total duration of 2 hours and 50 minutes.
The path of totality, where the Sun will be entirely blocked by the Moon, will pass over Spain, Portugal, and Morocco. The maximum duration of totality will be around 2 minutes and 11 seconds, occurring in the Atlantic Ocean between the two continents.
For those living outside the path of totality, a partial eclipse will be visible, where only a portion of the Sun will be blocked. In Europe, the eclipse will be visible as a partial eclipse during the morning hours, while in North Africa, it will be visible as a partial eclipse during the afternoon.
It’s essential to take proper precautions when viewing a solar eclipse, as looking directly at the Sun can cause severe eye damage. Specialized solar filters or eclipse glasses must be used to view the eclipse safely. It is also advisable to avoid using regular sunglasses or homemade filters, as they do not provide adequate protection.
In astrology, a Surya Grahan is considered a significant event, and many people believe that it can have an impact on their lives. It is said to be a time of transformation, new beginnings, and letting go of the past. Some astrologers also suggest performing spiritual practices during the eclipse to harness its energies.
In conclusion, the upcoming Surya Grahan in March 2023 is an exciting astronomical event that will be visible in parts of Europe, North Africa, and Western Asia. It is essential to take proper precautions when viewing the eclipse and to avoid looking directly at the Sun. Astrologically, the eclipse is believed to be a time of transformation and new beginnings, and many people may choose to perform spiritual practices during the event.