Surya Grahan
A solar eclipse, also known as a Surya Grahan, is an extraordinary astronomical event in which the moon passes directly between the earth and the sun, partially or totally blocking the sun’s light. The moon casts a shadow on Earth during this alignment. There are various kinds of solar eclipses: annular, in which the moon covers the sun’s centre and leaves a visible ring known as the “ring of fire”; total, in which the moon completely covers the sun and briefly turns day into night; partial, in which only a portion of the sun is obscured; and hybrid, in which the eclipse changes between total and annular along its path.
Solar eclipses happen about twice to five times a year, but they are only visible from any particular place on earth once every few years. Solar eclipses have been observed with wonder and reverence throughout history and culture, and they are frequently associated with a variety of stories, customs, and superstitions. For instance, Surya Grahan is seen as an unlucky occasion in Hinduism, which leads to various customs like fasting, mantra recitation, and avoiding from particular activities during the eclipse. From a scientific perspective, solar eclipses present exceptional chances to investigate the sun’s outermost layer, known as the corona, and have greatly advanced our knowledge of solar processes and celestial physics.
There are various kinds of eclipses of the sun:
Total Solar Eclipse: For a little while, day becomes night as the moon fully hides the sun.
Partial Solar Eclipse: A crescent-shaped moon appears when only a piece of the sun is covered by the moon.
An annular solar eclipse occurs when the moon passes directly over the sun’s centre, creating what is known as the “ring of fire.”
Rare kind of solar eclipse that, depending on the observer’s location on Earth, alternates between a total and a circular eclipse.
Solar eclipses occur between two and five times a year on average, although a total eclipse may only occur in a particular spot-on Earth once every few years.
Social and Historical Relevance: Solar eclipses have historically inspired terror, wonder, and respect in many societies. They have been connected to many stories and superstitions throughout history. For instance, a Surya Grahan is regarded as an unlucky occasion in Hindu tradition. During the eclipse, people frequently fast, withdraw from food and liquids, and recite mantras to ward off bad energy. Certain people also think that during solar eclipses, food and water can be contaminated by dangerous radiation, therefore they cover and filter these goods.
Scientific Importance: Because the sun’s corona, the outermost region of its atmosphere, is typically hidden by the shining solar disc, solar eclipses present exceptional opportunities for scientific research. Our knowledge of solar physics and celestial mechanics has greatly progressed as a result of observations conducted during solar eclipses. Notably, the 1919 solar eclipse allowed scientists to witness the bending of light from stars by the sun’s gravity, which was vital evidence in favour of Einstein’s general theory of relativity.
Viewing Safety: While it can be an amazing experience, it is important to take the necessary safety precautions when witnessing a solar eclipse. Even during an eclipse, staring straight at the sun can result in serious eye injury or even blindness. It is recommended to use pinhole projectors or special eclipse glasses for safe viewing of this cosmic event.
In conclusion, a Surya Grahan is a captivating occurrence that has captivated people’s attention across history and civilizations. It combines astronomical wonder with deep cultural traditions and important scientific research.
Date – 2nd Oct, 24
Day – Wednesday
