Wed Oct 02 12:20:53 UTC 2024: ## Ring of Fire: Final Solar Eclipse of 2024 to Grace Skies Over South America
**New Delhi, India:** The final solar eclipse of 2024, a captivating annular eclipse dubbed the “Ring of Fire,” will occur on Wednesday, October 2nd, starting at 9:13 PM IST. This celestial spectacle, where the moon partially blocks the sun, creating a ring of fire, will be visible in parts of South America, the Pacific Ocean, New Zealand, Peru, Fiji, and Argentina.
The eclipse, lasting approximately 6 hours and 4 minutes, will begin with a partial eclipse at 9:12:59 PM IST and culminate with the “Ring of Fire” effect at 12:15:04 AM IST (October 3rd).
While the eclipse won’t be visible from India, several other countries will witness the phenomenon, including parts of North America, the Atlantic Ocean, and parts of the Pacific Ocean.
According to NASA, the annular eclipse will be most visible in parts of South America, while a partial solar eclipse will be visible in the regions mentioned above.
Jyotish scholars have stated that the eclipse will begin its “Sutak” period, a period considered inauspicious by some traditions, 12 hours before the eclipse in regions where it is visible.
Experts advise against direct viewing of the eclipse without proper eye protection, as it can be harmful to vision.
The next solar eclipse is expected to occur on March 20, 2025, offering another opportunity for skygazers to witness this spectacular celestial event.
First Piper 