Monday, July 20, 2009

Longest solar eclipse

Millions of people across Asia will observe the longest solar eclipse that will take place on 22nd of July, most parts of India and China, the whole city of Shanghai and southern Japanese islands are pushed into darkness on Wednesday for about five minutes.

Stargazers in huge number and scientists around the world are traveling long distances to view the once-in-a-lifetime happening.

Astronomers expect the eclipse will release signs about the sun, while an astrologer in Myanmar predicts it could guide in confusion. A few in India are giving an opinion to pregnant relatives to stay indoors to follow a centuries-old tradition of keeping away from the sun's invisible rays.

For astronomers, it will be a possibility for a prolonged observation of the sun's corona, a white ring 1 million kilometers from the sun's surface. The earlier total eclipse, in August 2008, was two minutes and 27 seconds. This one will last 6 minutes and 39 seconds at its maximum point.

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