Meet Star Gazers

Solar Eclipses for Beginners

Episode Summary

A solar eclipse is a fascinating astronomical phenomenon. In this episode, I have the honour of interviewing the exemplary astronomer, Phil Harrington, on solar eclipses. He also shares with us precious recommendations for safely observing a solar eclipse.

Episode Notes

Phil Harrington has authored 9 books in the field of amateur astronomy and for his many contributions to this field across the past five decades, he was awarded the 2018 Walter Scott Houston Award at that year's Stellafane convention in Springfield, Vermont. In this episode, he shares with us his vast knowledge of solar eclipses and valuable recommendations for safely observing them.

Time stamps :

• 05:37 : What happens during a solar eclipse ?
• 07:31 : What are the stages of a solar eclipse ?
• 08:58 : How often do solar eclipses occur ?
• 12:21 : Why isn't there a solar eclipse every month ?
• 15:27 : How long do solar eclipses last ? Why does a solar eclipse only last a few minutes ?
• 18:09 : Can a solar eclipse be seen everywhere ? Why can't everyone on earth see every solar eclipse ?
• 19:43 : What are the 4 types of solar eclipses ?
• 25:38 : What is the difference between a total solar eclipse and a partial solar eclipse ?
• 26:48 : What is the difference between an annular and a total solar eclipse ?
• 28:57 : How rare is an annular solar eclipse ?
• 30:18 : What should you not do during a solar eclipse ?
• 35:21 : How can I safely view a solar eclipse ?

Useful links and resources :

• Phil Harrington
• Phil Harrington's Cosmic Challenge
• Phil Harrington's Binocular Universe
• Eclipse! by Philip S. Harrington
• Phil Harrington - Author on Facebook