Four-fifths or more of the sun’s diameter will be darkened by the moon’s shadow as the sun ascends. Areas north of the line may only see a small shadow on the lower half of the rising sun. The farther north and east you go, the bigger the shadow appears.
If you are in the viewing areas and you have clear skies look to the east-northeast, to see the rising sun appear crescent-shaped, or even surrounded by a ring of fire.
Ring of Fire history
Thousands of years ago, early civilizations were terrified by the bizarre appearance of the sun in a partial eclipse. Some were concerned that something was wrong with their “life-giver,” the sun. Or they may have even feared that they are under attack.
Today’s astronomers and skywatchers know what causes an eclipse. It’s easier to enjoy the spectacle when you understand that it’s the shadow of the moon making the sun dark. And a partial solar eclipse is not dangerous to humans.
The time when the moon appears to move on or off the sun is called the first and last contact.
