Patna: A rare celestial coincidence is set to unfold this weekend, as a solar eclipse occurs just 15 days after a lunar eclipse, sparking curiosity among astronomers and the public alike.
The solar eclipse, the second of the year, will begin at 10:59pm on Sunday, September 21, and last until 3:23am on Monday. While its duration will be over four hours, it will be visible only in the southern hemisphere, including Australia, New Zealand, Fiji and parts of Antarctica.
Astronomer Acharya Rajiv Kumar Mishra said the phenomenon will not be visible in India, as it will occur late at night. “For most people here, its impact will be negligible,” he said.
Scientists note that solar eclipses so close to lunar eclipses are relatively rare, making this event notable for researchers studying celestial patterns. However, while astronomers focus on its scientific significance, astrological interpretations continue to circulate, with predictions of varying effects across zodiac signs.
In India, religious customs associated with eclipses include avoiding new tasks, chanting mantras during the event, and performing purification rituals afterwards, though these remain cultural practices rather than scientific recommendations.
