A total solar eclipse will occur in the Asia Pacific region this Wednesday (March 9), visible to varying degrees from Japan to Australia. Solar eclipses occur when the moon crosses between the sun and the earth, forming a shadow on the earth's surface – from our vantage point, the sun disappears completely behind the shadow of the moon.
In Singapore, 146 eclipses have or will be seen between the years 1700 to 2100. The last eclipse occurred in January 2009, while the next solar eclipse, an annular one, will happen on Dec 26, 2019.
WHEN WILL THE ECLIPSE OCCUR?
HOW CAN I VIEW IT?
Most importantly: do not look directly at the sun.
If you're looking to observe the solar eclipse, do so with extreme caution. Looking at even a sliver of the sun can cause permanent eye damage or blindness; a pair of solar filters, aluminized mylar or a pinhole camera is needed for safe viewing. The same rule applies to devices used to take photographs of the solar eclipse as focused sunlight may potentially heat up and crack the optics of cameras.
For more information on how to view the solar eclipse safely, please visit the NASA website.
WHERE CAN I VIEW IT?
According to The Astronomical Society of Singapore, you'll be able to get an unobstructed view of the eastern horizon from anywhere in Singapore at a compass heading of 94 degrees.
For a spectacular vantage point 57 levels above the heart of the city, visit the stunning Sands Skypark public observation deck.
