A stunning and rare celestial treat took place last night, amazing for both professional and amateur stargazers.
On April 20, 2023 thousands of people on the northwest coast of Australia as well as Indonesia and East Timor were plunged into momentary daylight darkness as the path of a solar eclipse moved over the Indian Ocean to the Pacific Ocean.
Although the eclipse was only visible in parts of the southern hemisphere of the Earth, given the rarity of the event it is worth watching a stream. Here is everything you need to know about how to watch the eclipse, why it occurs and when is the next one.
READ MORE: ITV 'planning new reality show with celebs forced to live in a space station'
When will the next hybrid eclipse happen?
The eclipse that took place is considered to be rare as it is a hybrid of both a total solar eclipse and an annular solar eclipse. This type of eclipse only takes place a few times in a century, with Space.com explaining the next one won’t occur until 2031 and then following this until 2164.
What is a hybrid solar eclipse?
This type of eclipse occurs when an eclipse jumps back between two different types of eclipses, a total eclipse and an annular eclipse.
A total eclipse is exactly what it sounds like, it occurs when the moon passes between Earth and the sun totally blocking out the light from the star in the middle of our solar system.
This is different from an annular solar eclipse. Although the two share similarities, an annular eclipse occurs when the moon and sun pass each other but further away.
Although the moon still passes the Earth, as the moon is further away it appears smaller and so leaves a circle of light which can be seen radiating from behind it.
How can I watch the eclipse if it already happened?
To watch the full eclipse you can check out this stream on the Nasa YouTube channel. The stream, which lasts for around two hours, broadcasts the eclipse as seen in Australia.
READ NEXT:
Garda killer Stephen Silver sentenced to life in prison for capital murder of Detective Colm Horkan
Gerry 'The Monk' Hutch looks almost unrecognisable out and about in Dublin after bombshell verdict
- Met Eireann predict sunny days before major change could bring back wintry weather
- 'Irish Bear Grylls' Dane Galligan on battling severe depression and anxiety
- Gordon Elliott sends three runners to Cheltenham for first day of April meeting
Get news updates direct to your inbox by signing up to our daily newsletter here
