Päikeselvarjutuse

Päikeselvarjutus is the Estonian word for solar eclipse. A solar eclipse is an astronomical event that occurs when the Moon passes between the Sun and the Earth, and the Moon fully or partially blocks the Sun. This can only happen during the New Moon phase, when the Sun and Moon are in conjunction as seen from Earth.

There are three types of solar eclipses. A total solar eclipse occurs when the Moon completely covers the Sun. A partial solar eclipse occurs when the Moon only covers part of the Sun. An annular solar eclipse occurs when the Moon is too far from Earth to completely cover the Sun, resulting in a ring of sunlight appearing around the Moon.

The path of totality for a total solar eclipse is relatively narrow. Observers within this path experience a total eclipse, while those outside experience a partial eclipse. The frequency of solar eclipses varies, but total solar eclipses are rare events for any given location. The last total solar eclipse visible from Estonia occurred in 1999, and the next is expected in 2081. However, partial solar eclipses are more frequent.

During a total solar eclipse, the Sun's corona, its outer atmosphere, becomes visible. This is a spectacular sight that cannot be seen at other times due to the Sun's brightness. It is crucial to never look directly at the Sun during any phase of a solar eclipse without proper eye protection, as it can cause permanent eye damage. Specialized eclipse glasses or viewers are necessary.