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A rare celestial event, the longest and the last total solar eclipse of the century is taking place Wednesday, when the sun will be seen blocked by the moon for almost two hours.
A total solar eclipse can be seen from fourteen districts in eastern Nepal, while the rest of the country will witness a partial eclipse ranging from 96 per cent in Kathmandu to 75 per cent in western Nepal. Totality will last for up to 6 minutes 39 seconds.
In Kathmandu, the eclipse will start at 5.45 am, reach its climax at 6.42 am and end at 7.45 am. In Pokhara, the eclipse can be seen from 5.46 am to 7.44 am. It will reach climax at 6.42 am when 93 per cent of the sun will be covered by moon.
Astronomers have said, Ilaam is the best place to witness the eclipse from Nepal as it is situated at a high-altitude. Sky-gazers and tourists have thronged to Fikkal bazaar of Ilaam to witness the rare event of the century.
Astronomers have warned not to view the sun directly with naked eyes as the rays during eclipse may damage eyesight.
B.P. Koirala Memorial Planetarium, Observatory and Science Museum Development Board has made special arrangements to view the eclipse by telescope without damaging the eye from Nepal Academy of Science and Technology (NAST) premises in Khumaltar, the Kathmandu Mall and Takshashila Academy in Baluwatar.
Meanwhile, the government has declared a public holiday on Wednesday in view of the total solar eclipse. The home ministry issued a press release Tuesday declaring a public holiday in all government offices across the country and diplomatic missions in various countries. Educational institutions have also declared a holiday Wednesday. The last total eclipse seen from Nepal was on Jan 22, 1898 and the next one will occur on May 14, 2124. nepalnews.com
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