On October 14, 2023, an extraordinary celestial event will grace the skies of North America—the annular solar eclipse, famously known as the “ring of fire.” This captivating event occurs when the moon partially covers the sun, creating a spectacular halo of light around its edges.
Occurring in Utah from 9:08 a.m. to 11:56 a.m. MDT, the annular solar eclipse is predicted to have 90% visibility near East Zion. While the eclipse won’t completely darken the area, it will dim the skies, creating an awe-inspiring ambiance.
Where to watch
For those fortunate enough to be in southwest Utah during this event, particularly in East Zion, you’re in for a celestial treat. East Zion offers a vantage point where you can witness a 90% eclipse, allowing you to see the sun transform into a dazzling ring of fire.
If you’re seeking the complete “ring of fire” experience, a short journey to various nearby national parks is recommended. Bryce Canyon National Park, Canyonlands National Park, and Capitol Reef National Park are all within a few hours’ drive from East Zion and offer prime spots to view the annular eclipse in its full glory.
However, if you prefer to stay closer to East Zion, there are plenty of fantastic local viewing spots. Locations like Zion National Park, Snow Canyon Overlook, Gunlock State Park, Sand Hollow State Park, Zion Ponderosa Ranch Resort, and public lands near Virgin and Rockville will still provide around a 90% view of the eclipse.
Image source: greatamericaneclipse.com
Safety first
Eye safety is paramount during any eclipse event. Never look directly at the sun, even during an eclipse, as it can be severely harmful to your eyes. Use certified solar viewing glasses to witness this celestial wonder safely, as regular sunglasses won’t provide adequate protection.
To enhance your eclipse experience, consider using solar binoculars to observe the dynamic Baily’s Beads—sparkling points of sunlight as the Moon’s edge moves across the Sun. It’s a breathtaking display that you won’t want to miss.
A rare phenomena
One remarkable aspect of this eclipse is its proximity—both in space and time. An annular solar eclipse happens when the moon passes between the sun and earth. In this case, the moon is farther away from earth and appears smaller than the Sun. The curvature of the Earth will create an illusion as the moon rises and descends, making the moon appear larger—a phenomenon that hasn’t occurred in almost 1000 years.
Mark your calendars and prepare for a celestial spectacle of a lifetime. The 2023 annular solar eclipse is an event that will leave you in awe, and if you find yourself in East Zion, you’ll be in an exceptional position to witness this rare astronomical event, creating memories to last a lifetime.