Aditya-L1 marks India’s pioneering venture into space-based solar research, positioning itself as the inaugural Indian mission dedicated to studying the sun. It shall be placed at the Lagrange point 1 (L1) of the sun-earth system, approximately 1.5 million kilometres away from earth. This spacecraft holds the distinct advantage of being able to continuously observe the sun without any interruptions from occultation or eclipses.
Equipped with seven advanced payloads, Aditya-L1 is designed to meticulously observe the various layers of the sun, including the photosphere, chromosphere, and the outermost layer, the corona, using an array of electromagnetic, particle, and magnetic field detectors. By leveraging its strategic vantage point at L1, four payloads are dedicated to direct solar observation, while the remaining three focus on conducting in-situ studies of particles and fields, providing critical insights into solar dynamics in the interplanetary medium.
The mission's primary focus lies in unravelling key solar phenomena such as coronal heating, coronal mass ejections (CMEs), and solar flares, while also delving into the physics of partially ionised plasma and the mechanisms driving space weather. By studying the temperature, velocity, and density of plasma within the corona and its loops, Aditya-L1 aims to shed light on the intricate dynamics of solar eruptive events and the underlying magnetic field topology.
Aditya-L1's ambitious scientific objectives include deciphering the initiation and propagation of CMEs, unravelling the complex sequence of processes leading to solar eruptive events across multiple layers of the sun's atmosphere, and identifying the drivers behind space weather phenomena such as solar wind. With its cutting-edge instrumentation and strategic orbit, Aditya-L1 is poised to revolutionise our understanding of the sun and its profound impact on the solar system.
Localised changes in heat and light during solar eclipses offer rare opportunities to study the earth's atmosphere, especially layers like the ionosphere which is crucial for communication systems and satellite operations.
Why solar eclipses or surya grahan fascinate scientists and researchers
Eclipses aren’t just captivating celestial events, they’re also invaluable opportunities for scientific discovery. For over a century, solar eclipses have served as windows to unravel mysteries about the sun’s structure, the theory of general relativity, and even the discovery of new elements.
Even today, scientists continue to harness the power of eclipses to unlock new insights into the sun, earth, and our broader space environment. Total solar eclipses, in particular, offer a unique chance to study the sun’s corona, a faint outer atmosphere typically obscured by the sun's brilliance. Instruments like coronagraphs attempt to mimic the conditions of an eclipse, but they often struggle to capture the innermost part of the corona where critical processes occur.
Understanding the dynamics of the corona is vital for deciphering how the sun's energy and heat are transmitted into the solar wind, a stream of particles that can impact Earth's atmosphere and technology. By studying eclipses, scientists can predict and mitigate potential impacts of solar activity on our planet.
Furthermore, eclipses provide a localised disruption of solar energy, offering a rare opportunity to study earth's atmosphere under unique conditions. This focused illumination change, aids researchers in understanding phenomena like the ionosphere, a layer crucial for communication systems and satellite operations.
Recent eclipse studies, such as those conducted during the 2017 total solar eclipse, have provided valuable data for predicting future eclipses and understanding space weather patterns. The observations made during these events contribute to developing models that forecast solar material movement and its influence on near-earth space.
Long-term eclipse studies also offer profound insights. Some studies have revealed the corona’s surprisingly stable temperature, despite undergoing periodic changes associated with the solar cycle.
In essence, eclipses serve as powerful tools for scientific inquiry, offering researchers a rare glimpse into the workings of our solar system and beyond. With each eclipse, new discoveries emerge, enriching our understanding of the universe.
Read more: Total solar eclipse on April 8: Frequently asked questions
Total Solar Eclipse: A journey through the history of eclipses
Eclipses have long awed humanity and sparked our curiosity. From ancient petroglyphs to modern scientific expeditions, these celestial events have left an indelible mark on human history, offering both intrigue and enlightenment.
Dating back to as early as 3340 B.C., the Loughcrew Megalithic Monument in Ireland bears witness to one of the oldest recorded eclipses in human history. Petroglyphs discovered at the site hint at the profound impact eclipses had on ancient civilizations. Similarly, scribes in Anyang, China, meticulously documented eclipses on oracle bones, providing crucial insights into earth's rotational changes over millennia.
In the realm of science, eclipses have played a pivotal role in shaping our understanding of the universe. In 1916, Albert Einstein proposed his theory of general relativity, suggesting that gravity is a warping of time and space. However, it wasn't until 1919 that Sir Arthur Eddington led an eclipse science expedition, providing empirical evidence to validate Einstein's theory and propelling him to scientific stardom. More recently, the August 2017 total solar eclipse that traversed the United States provided an unprecedented opportunity for scientific observation, with a consortium of spacecraft, aircraft, and citizen scientists capturing invaluable data.
Later, in 2019, NASA's GOLD mission observed the eclipse in South America. It was the first time they measured how eclipses impact the Earth's thermosphere layer. In 2021, scientists shared results from studying eclipses for over ten years. They discovered that the corona, the sun's outer layer, stays at a steady temperature over time, even though the Sun's activity changes every 11 years.
Looking ahead, the upcoming total solar eclipse in 2024 offers fresh prospects for scientific exploration and public engagement.
In 2019, NASA's GOLD mission observed the eclipse in South America. It was the first time they measured how eclipses impact the Earth's thermosphere layer.
How a total solar eclipse impacts the ecosystem and human health
When a total solar eclipse casts its shadow, nature responds in mysterious ways. Birds cease their songs, crickets begin to chirp, and bees retreat to their hives, fooled by the false dusk that descends upon the land. The peculiar behaviours exhibited by animals during eclipses have intrigued scientists for centuries.
To shed light on this phenomenon, a NASA-funded Eclipse Soundscapes Project will harness the power of citizen science during the upcoming total solar eclipse on April 8. By enlisting the help of interested individuals, the project aims to explore how eclipses impact various ecosystems through sight, sound, and sensation.
During a total solar eclipse, the moon positions itself directly in front of the sun, momentarily blocking its light. In regions within the path of totality, where the sun’s rays are completely obscured, the environment undergoes dramatic changes reminiscent of twilight. Temperatures drop, stars appear, and diurnal animals may alter their behaviour in response to the sudden darkness.
This, however, isn’t the first to study the notable influence on the environment. A 2023 study found that while the effects of solar eclipses, such as changes in temperature, wind patterns, and impacts on plant and animal behaviour, are relatively short-lived, they can have a significant impact on ecosystems and food production.
The sudden temperature drop, especially pronounced during total solar eclipses, can hinder plant growth, impacting regions where the phenomenon lingers. Moreover, the diminished sunlight disrupts the earth’s surface heating and cooling, leading to atmospheric pressure changes and consequent alterations in wind circulation. These atmospheric shifts can manifest as changes in local weather patterns, further influencing ecosystems.
Animals, particularly those reliant on sunlight for navigation like birds and insects, may experience disorientation, altering their typical behaviour such as feeding or migration. Additionally, the reduced sunlight hampers plant photosynthesis, impeding their growth. Thus, the study concluded that despite their brief duration, solar eclipses can instigate a ripple effect across ecosystems, influencing various facets of plant and animal life, weather dynamics, and agricultural productivity.
While solar eclipses pose little to no direct threat to human health, precautions must be taken. Dr Manoj Kamath, a general practitioner based in Mumbai, says, “Looking at the sun during an eclipse can hurt your eyes badly or even make you blind. The sun's UV rays can hurt the part of your eye that takes in light, called the retina. This can happen even if the sun is only partly covered by the moon.”
He suggests using special filters made for looking at the sun or trying indirect ways to see the eclipse, like using a pinhole camera. Regular sunglasses or homemade filters might not keep your eyes safe enough, so it's best to avoid using them.
Did you know total solar eclipses will gradually end?
In approximately 600 million years, earth will witness its final total solar eclipse.
As skywatchers eagerly await the total solar eclipse on April 8, their focus will undoubtedly be on the sun. However, amidst the spectacle, it's crucial not to overlook the silent protagonist, the moon, because of whom the days of this celestial phenomenon are numbered.
A total solar eclipse is a rare occurrence where the moon positions itself directly between earth and the sun, momentarily obscuring the sun’s brilliance and casting a shadow over the planet. This captivating sight is only made possible by the precise alignment of these cosmic bodies.
Its magic also lies in the equal apparent size of the moon and the sun in earth’s sky, a delicate balance where the moon’s proximity compensates for its smaller size. However, this balance is shifting gradually as the moon inches away from earth at a rate of about 1.5 inches per year, according to NASA.
As the moon continues its retreat, the future holds a sombre truth – total solar eclipses will eventually become a relic of the past. In approximately 600 million years, earth will witness its final total solar eclipse as the diminishing size of the moon renders it unable to completely cover the sun.
At the same time, witnessing a total solar eclipse from a specific location is a stroke of luck, as the moon’s shadow covers only a limited area. As per NASA, being in the right place at the right time is akin to hitting the jackpot, as the same spot on earth typically experiences a total solar eclipse only once every 375 years.
And with each passing eclipse, the fleeting nature of this celestial phenomenon becomes ever more apparent. So, as you marvel at the spectacle of April’s eclipse, do take the time to appreciate the transient beauty of our cosmic companions, knowing that their dance will one day come to an end.
When and where will the Great North American Solar Eclipse of April 8 be visible
The rare celestial phenomenon will be visible across continental America.
On April 8 this year, the sun will perform yet another vanishing act. This time around, it will be in the form of a total solar eclipse. Captivated viewers will be able to watch as the moon completely obscures the sun, casting a shadow on Earth. This remarkable event will be visible across continental North America, spanning Mexico, the United States, and Canada.
The journey of totality will commence over the South Pacific Ocean before making its way to Mexico's Pacific coast, where totality will first be visible at approximately 11.07 am PDT (12.37 am IST). The eclipse’s path will then traverse the United States, crossing through states such as Texas, Oklahoma, Arkansas, Missouri, Illinois, Kentucky, Indiana, Ohio, Pennsylvania, New York, Vermont, New Hampshire, and Maine. Small parts of Tennessee and Michigan will also have the opportunity to see it.
The trajectory will continue into Canada, crossing through Ontario and then spanning Quebec, New Brunswick, Prince Edward Island, and Cape Breton before finally departing continental North America along the Atlantic coast of Newfoundland.
Major cities including Dallas, Little Rock, Burlington, Cleveland, Caribou, and Erie will be treated to the full spectacle, offering ample opportunities for skywatchers to witness this rare astronomical phenomenon. Some regions outside the path of totality will have the opportunity to experience a partial eclipse to varying extents, but the eclipse will not be visible in India.
Those who wish to see the most mesmerising view of the sun fully obscured by the moon, however, will have to position themselves within the path of totality. As with any celestial event, favourable weather conditions are essential for optimal visibility and better viewing. Clear skies will provide the best experience, prompting astronomers and eclipse enthusiasts to closely monitor weather forecasts in the days leading up to the event.
Folklore, facts and figures around solar eclipses
From ancient civilisations to modern-day astronomers, solar eclipses continue to captivate our imagination with their unique tales and intriguing facts. Prior to April’s total solar eclipse, marvel at these unique tales:
In ancient Greece, a solar eclipse was seen as a foreboding sign, believed to herald impending doom—a belief reflected in the very word “eclipse”, which is derived from the Greek word “ekleipsis”, meaning “being abandoned”.
Similarly, ancient Chinese emperors relied on eclipse predictions to safeguard their reign, with failed forecasts often met with severe consequences, as two unfortunate astrologers, Hsi and Ho, discovered.
Viking folklore portrays a dramatic chase between the sun god and a wolf, culminating in a solar eclipse when the wolf catches its elusive prey.
Similarly, indigenous Pomo tales attribute the darkening of the sun to a bear’s playful mischief—a stark contrast to the ominous omens of mediaeval Europe. The Pomo name for a solar eclipse is “Sun got bit by a bear.”
In Italy, it is believed that flowers planted during a solar eclipse are brighter and more colourful than flowers planted any other time of the year.
Eclipses have even influenced literature and history, with authors like Milton and Mark Twain immortalising their eerie beauty and societal impact. Milton, in Paradise Lost, captures the unease eclipses generated in early Europeans:
As when the Sun, new risen,
Looks through the horizontal misty air,
Shorn of his beams, or from behind the Moon,
In dim eclipse, disastrous twilight sheds
On half the nations, and with fear of change
Perplexes monarchs.
Beyond myths and legends, eclipses hold scientific significance. During an eclipse, local wildlife often prepares for rest or exhibits confused behaviour, while temperatures can plummet by 20 degrees or more near totality.
Partial solar eclipses are observable from locations up to 3,000 miles away from the path of totality.
Each year, a maximum of 5 solar eclipses, including partial, annular, or total eclipses, occur worldwide, with at least 2 solar eclipses happening somewhere on Earth.
Helium, the second most abundant element in the universe, was discovered on August 18, 1868, by French astronomer Jules Janssen during a total solar eclipse in India. Its name “helium” derives from “helios”, the Greek word for the sun, as it was initially detected in the sun's spectrum.
The word 'eclipse', comes from the Greek word 'ekleipsis', which meaning 'being abandoned'. (Photo: Patrick via Unsplash)
How 6 ancient cultures explained a solar eclipse
A solar eclipse was a perplexing event prior to a scientific explanation. Throughout history, eclipses have been viewed as disruptions of the natural order, often associated with ominous omens by various cultures around the world. Here’s how six ancient cultures interpreted them:
Chinese: Ancient Chinese mythology attributed solar eclipses to celestial dragons attacking and devouring the sun. To frighten away the dragon and save the sun, people would make loud noises during an eclipse. Lunar eclipses, however, were seen as mundane occurrences.
Indian: In Hindu mythology, solar eclipses are linked to the cunning demon Rahu, who sought immortality by drinking the nectar of the gods. Beheaded by Vishnu, Rahu's decapitated head flies across the sky, occasionally swallowing the sun.
Incan: The Inca believed solar eclipses signified the wrath of Inti, the sun god. Following an eclipse, sacrifices were offered to appease him, and fasting was common practice.
Native American: According to Choctaw legend, a mischievous black squirrel nibbling on the Sun causes eclipses. Similarly, Ojibwa and Cree tales feature a boy named Tcikabis who snared the Sun in revenge for burning him, triggering an eclipse until a mouse freed it.
West African: According to Batammaliba legend, human conflict spread to the sun and moon, causing them to fight and trigger an eclipse. During eclipses, the Batammaliba seek peace and reconciliation.
Egyptian: Although ancient Egyptians did not leave explicit records of solar eclipses, scholars speculate that such events were deliberately unrecorded to avoid unsettling the sun god Ra or were lost over time. Experts, however, have noticed references to metaphorical blindness in ancient texts coincide with historical eclipse dates, possibly symbolising these events.
These diverse mythologies offer fascinating insights into how ancient cultures interpreted and understood the phenomenon of a solar eclipse, reflecting both their awe and apprehension toward this celestial event.
Top myths associated with surya grahan
In spite of the scientific explanation for the celestial event, some misconceptions still endure. Humans have been observing solar eclipses for centuries, leading to a growing understanding of these celestial phenomena. While scientific explanations have replaced many older ideas, some myths persist. Here are a few enduring ones:
SOLAR ECLIPSE MYTH: Total solar eclipses can cause blindness.
SOLAR ECLIPSE FACT: During totality, the sun's corona emits only faint electromagnetic radiation, posing no risk to vision. However, looking directly at the sun before totality can cause retinal damage.
SOLAR ECLIPSE MYTH: Pregnant women should avoid viewing eclipses.
SOLAR ECLIPSE FACT: While some fear harmful radiation during eclipses, the corona's light is safe. Neutrinos from the sun pass through Earth continually, posing no risk to health, including fetal development.
SOLAR ECLIPSE MYTH: Eclipses can contaminate food.
SOLAR ECLIPSE FACT: There's no evidence that eclipses affect food safety. Such beliefs stem from unfounded fears of harmful radiation during these events.
SOLAR ECLIPSE MYTH: Eclipses foreshadow disaster.
SOLAR ECLIPSE FACT: Confirmation bias leads to linking eclipses with negative events. While historical records may associate eclipses with upheavals, many such connections are coincidental.
SOLAR ECLIPSE MYTH: Total solar eclipses don't occur at the North or South Poles.
SOLAR ECLIPSE FACT: Solar eclipses can occur anywhere on Earth. The last total eclipse viewed from the North Pole was in 2015, and from the South Pole in 2003.
SOLAR ECLIPSE MYTH: The moon turns entirely black during totality.
SOLAR ECLIPSE FACT: Earthshine illuminates the moon's surface, making it visible during totality, surrounded by the sun's corona.
SOLAR ECLIPSE MYTH: The solar corona has always been observed during eclipses.
SOLAR ECLIPSE FACT: Historical accounts often lack detailed descriptions of the corona. The first detailed record dates back to 1715.
SOLAR ECLIPSE MYTH: Eclipses predict significant life changes.
SOLAR ECLIPSE FACT: Astrological forecasts linking eclipses to life events lack scientific basis and rely on confirmation bias.
SOLAR ECLIPSE MYTH: Solar eclipses signal exceptional celestial events.
SOLAR ECLIPSE FACT: Eclipses are predictable astronomical phenomena, highlighting the universe's regularity.
SOLAR ECLIPSE MYTH: Eclipses near your birthday indicate health issues.
SOLAR ECLIPSE FACT: Correlations between eclipses and health are coincidental and lack scientific basis.
This total solar eclipse could be among the top travel events of the year
Between 1 and 4 million people are estimated to journey to the path of totality to see it.
On April 8, the United States will witness a total solar eclipse. From Texas to Maine, millions of Americans will be cast into temporary darkness. While 31 million individuals currently reside inside the path of totality, and millions more are anticipated to travel to witness the spectacle.
Great American Eclipse, in collaboration with eclipse cartographers have developed a geographic model to estimate eclipse tourism. Their predictions suggest that between 1 and 4 million people will journey to the path of totality, with Texas expected to receive the highest number of visitors, followed by Indiana, Ohio, New York, and others.
The anticipation of this astronomical event has prompted preparations in various regions, with Texas, Indiana, and Ohio bracing for substantial crowds. Metropolitan areas such as San Antonio, Houston, Memphis, and others are expected to contribute to heavy traffic flow towards the eclipse’s path. Places such as Kerrville, Texas, could see nearly half a million visitors, highlighting the significant impact of this celestial phenomenon on local communities and tourism.
If you too are planning to visit, here are some tips to consider:
Research the path of totality: Determine the exact path of totality, where the eclipse will be fully visible, and plan your travel accordingly. Websites and apps provide detailed maps and information about the eclipse's path.
Book accommodation early: Accommodation along the path of totality fills up quickly, so book your lodging well in advance. Consider options like campsites, hotels, or vacation rentals in nearby towns.
Prepare for crowds and traffic: Expect heavy traffic and large crowds, especially on the day of the eclipse. Plan your travel routes in advance, and allow extra time for potential delays.
Check the weather forecast: Monitor the weather forecast for your viewing location and have a backup plan in case of poor weather. Consider travelling to a nearby area with clearer skies if necessary.
Arrive early: Arrive at your chosen viewing location early to secure a good spot and avoid last-minute rush. Set up your viewing equipment and familiarise yourself with the surroundings.
12 solar eclipse terms to know
A solar eclipse is a breathtaking celestial event that captures the imagination of people around the world. Understanding the terminology associated with this phenomenon enhances the appreciation of its beauty and scientific significance. Knowing these terms enriches the experience, whether in person or through photographs and videos. Here’s a comprehensive glossary to shed light on the vocabulary of solar eclipses:
1. Solar Eclipse: This occurs when the moon passes between the sun and earth, partially or completely blocking the sun’s light.
2. Total Solar Eclipse: When the moon completely covers the sun, casting a shadow on earth and plunging the area within the path of totality into darkness. One is set to occur on April 8.
3. Partial Solar Eclipse: A phenomenon where only a portion of the sun is obscured by the moon, resulting in a crescent-shaped sun.
4. Annular Solar Eclipse: This occurs when the moon is too far from earth to fully cover the sun, leaving a ring of sunlight visible around the moon's silhouette.
5. Umbra and Penumbra: The umbra is the central, darkest part of the moon’s shadow during an eclipse, while the penumbra is the outer region.
6. Path of Totality: The narrow path on earth’s surface where a total solar eclipse is visible.
7. Diamond Ring Effect: A brief moment during a total solar eclipse when a single point of sunlight is visible, resembling a sparkling diamond ring.
8. Totality: The period during a total solar eclipse when the sun is completely covered by the moon, revealing the sun’s corona.
9. Corona: The outer atmosphere of the sun, visible during a total solar eclipse as a faint, pearly-white halo surrounding the darkened disk of the moon.
10. Eclipse Glasses: Specialised eyewear designed to protect the eyes while observing a solar eclipse, allowing safe viewing of the sun.
11. Solar Filter: A filter placed over telescopes or cameras to safely view and photograph the Sun during an eclipse.
12. Solar Eclipse Photography: The practice of capturing images of solar eclipses using specialised equipment and techniques.
Precautions you must take during a solar eclipse
The solar eclipse is an incredible sight to behold, but observing it requires caution to protect your eyes and ensure your safety. Remember to put safety first even as you enjoy the spectacle. Here are some precautions to consider:
1. Use proper eye protection: Staring directly at the sun can cause severe eye damage. Always use approved solar-viewing glasses or solar filters to safely observe the eclipse. Regular sunglasses, homemade filters, or improvised viewing devices like smoked glass or CDs are not safe for solar viewing.
2. Watch indirectly: Instead of looking directly at the sun, consider using indirect viewing methods. One method is to use a pinhole projector, which allows you to view the eclipse's image projected onto a surface. You can also create a simple pinhole camera using a cardboard box to project the eclipse's image onto the ground.
3. Avoid looking at the eclipse through cameras, binoculars, or telescopes without proper filters: Just as your eyes can be damaged by direct sunlight, so too can camera sensors, binocular lenses, and telescope optics. Always use solar filters specifically designed for these devices to avoid damaging them.
5. Be mindful of surroundings: During a solar eclipse, the sudden darkness may cause changes in lighting conditions, potentially leading to accidents or disorientation. Be aware of your surroundings, especially if you're outdoors, and take precautions to avoid tripping or falling.
6. Keep pets indoors: Just as you should avoid looking directly at the sun during an eclipse, you should also ensure that your pets do not inadvertently stare at the sun. Keep them indoors or provide them with adequate shade to protect their eyes.
7. Stay informed: Before the eclipse, familiarise yourself with its timing and duration. Follow updates from reputable sources such as meteorological agencies or astronomical organisations to stay informed about any changes or developments related to the eclipse.
By following these precautions, you can safely enjoy the awe-inspiring beauty of a solar eclipse without risking your health or safety.
Tips to get the perfect solar eclipse shot
Photographing a solar eclipse requires careful planning, the right equipment, and safety precautions. Following these best practices can increase your chances of capturing stunning photos that you'll cherish for years to come:
1. Use proper eye protection: Before attempting to photograph a solar eclipse, ensure you have adequate eye protection to safely view the event. Never look directly at the sun through your camera’s viewfinder without proper solar filters or eclipse glasses.
2. Choose the right equipment: To photograph a solar eclipse, you'll need a camera with manual settings, such as a DSLR or mirrorless camera, along with a sturdy tripod to keep your camera stable during the long exposures typically required for eclipse photography.
3. Select a location: Plan your shooting location in advance, considering factors such as weather conditions, potential obstructions like buildings or trees, and the path of totality if you’re aiming to capture the total solar eclipse.
4. Use a telephoto lens: For close-up shots of the sun during the eclipse, use a telephoto lens with a focal length of at least 300mm to capture details of the sun’s corona and any solar prominences visible during totality.
5. Adjust your camera settings: Switch your camera to manual mode to have full control over settings such as aperture, shutter speed, and ISO. Use a small aperture (high f-stop) to maintain sharpness and detail, a low ISO to reduce noise, and a fast shutter speed to prevent overexposure.
6. Focus carefully: Achieving precise focus is crucial for capturing sharp images of the sun. Use manual focus and magnify the sun's image on your camera's LCD screen to ensure its tack sharp before taking your shot.
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