South America experiences rare 'ring of fire' solar eclipse

A "ring of fire" solar eclipse occurred on October 3, 2024, visible from Chile's Easter Island and mainland Patagonia. This rare event attracted many tourists and astronomy enthusiasts to witness the phenomenon. The annular eclipse began in the North Pacific and lasted over three hours, with full "annularity" lasting about six minutes. Observers noted a drop in temperature and brightness as the moon partially obscured the sun. In Patagonia, residents braved cold weather to watch the eclipse, with schools suspending classes for the occasion. Safe viewing methods included special glasses or indirect viewing techniques.