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KILLEEN, Texas (FOX 44) – The Central Texas solar eclipse gives us all a great opportunity to learn more about the sky and how our planet interacts with the rest of the solar system. I’ll give it to you.
It’s also an opportunity to reflect on some of the myths that arise from the sudden darkness of a solar eclipse. Planetarium resident astronomer Warren Hart shares what scientists have known for years about total solar eclipses.
“The moon in orbit begins to appear between us and the sun as it orbits the Earth,” Hart explains.
However, for many people in ancient times, the “disappearance” of the sun caused great fear.
“Are there any legends associated with solar eclipses?” asks Montemayor.
“If you think about Greek mythology… who was in charge of the sky?” says Hart.
The Greeks believed that a solar eclipse was a sign that the gods would be angry with them and the sun would abandon the earth.
“That’s their science,” Hart says.
In the late 15th century, even more astronomical data became available. During his voyage, Christopher Columbus used his knowledge of the upcoming solar eclipse to get out of his predicament.
“They stopped at one of the South Sea Islands and made contact with the indigenous people. They came looking for water and food, and they were turned away,” Hart explains.
“Then he said, “All right, I will make the dragon come and eat your sun.” And it happened. And it gave them water and food for the next few days. It got them interested in offering it.”
Modern science has long pushed urban legends aside, but total solar eclipses can still shock parts of our ecosystem.
“It’s a strange thing, but the animals say, ‘Okay, it’s time to go to bed,'” Hart said.
Another notable phenomenon is the diamond ring effect, first discovered by British astronomer Francis Bailey.
“There’s a little bit of sunlight around the moon, and it’s just poking right there,” Hart explains.
When the sun’s light is almost completely blocked by the moon, you can find “Bailey’s beads.” Once they’re all there, it’s a chance to see the rarely seen celestial bodies, which usually hide close to the shining sun.
“If Jupiter is there, you can probably see some of its moons,” Hart says. “And you can also see the constellations that are happening at that time.”
It’s rare for a given place on Earth to fall into a total path, but the people of Central Texas consider themselves lucky.
“The last time we actually encountered one here was a little over 515 years ago,” Hart said.
It’s a rare experience, so it’s an experience you don’t want to miss.
FOX 44’s MG Montemayor also spoke with Mayborn Science Theater Planetarium Director Kathryn Winston about the upcoming total solar eclipse. For more information, read her story here.
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