India to study in detail July 22 solar eclipse: Nair

Thiruvananthapuram/Kolkata/Bhopal, July 19 (ANI): G Madhavan Nair, Chairman of Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO), has said that India plans to study in detail the effects of total solar eclipse on July 22.

"We are trying to see the effect on the ionosphere and the atmosphere when the solar eclipse takes place. So, we have to collect the data during this period and then one has to go through the details," Nair said in Thiruvananthapuram.

India will witness a total solar eclipse on July 22, the last of the kind to be visible in the country for the next 105 years.

A total solar eclipse occurs when the moon moves between the sun and the earth, blocking out the sun from the areas in the moon's shadow. Without the sun's light, the sky darkens enough for stars to be seen and the corona makes a spectacular halo around the moon.

The upcoming solar eclipse has roused interest in astronomy leading to a heavy rush in planetariums across the country.

In Kolkata, people flocked to the MP Birla Planetarium to watch a special show on solar eclipse.

"I have come here to see a special show on solar eclipse," said Manjunath, a visitor.

Temples in Bhopal are also witnessing a heavy rush of devotees, as most of them believe that offering prayers and rituals can ward off the possible ill effects of the eclipse.

"We are all informed about the solar eclipse that will take place on July 22 morning. If we pray to God, we are sure we will get rid of all obstacles and ill effects," said Bhagwandas Sabnani, an organiser.

After the solar eclipse on July 22, the next one will be visible in the Indian sub-continent only 105 years later, on June 3, 2114.

The total duration of the eclipse will be six minutes thirty-nine seconds, visible over the Pacific Ocean. (ANI)