This Sunday, May 20, 2012, an infrequent event known as an annular solar eclipse - from the "annulus", a Latin word meaning "little ring" - and, weather permitting, will be best viewed in Asia, the Pacific region and some areas of Western North America. When it peaks, as the moon comes directly between the sun and earth, it will block about 94 percent of the sun.
Not visible on the east coast, as the sun will have set prior to this event, some parts of the United States and Canada will see a partial solar eclipse. This will take place late afternoon, translating to 6 pm May 20th in Edmonton and Calgary, and May 21st for those observing in Asia.
Space.com offers a http://www.space.com/15620-solar-eclipse-may20-skywatching-tips.html">Guide to Viewing on their site, with an in-depth look at what happens during an annular solar eclipse with warnings to viewers. The video embedded below is just the tease to entice you to make it to your local space and science centre to take part in the viewing of the annular solar eclipse.
