The date for the highly anticipated Surya Grahan 2024 has been announced, with the first solar eclipse of the year set to take place on April 8. Unfortunately, the eclipse will not be visible in India, but spectators in North America, Mexico, and Western Europe will have the opportunity to witness this rare celestial event. The American space agency, NASA, will be live streaming the eclipse on YouTube, providing a unique and educational viewing experience for those unable to witness it in person. Don't miss out on this once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to witness the Moon cover the Sun for a remarkable 7.5 minutes.
The first solar eclipse of 2024, known as Surya Grahan in Hindi, is scheduled to occur on April 8. This celestial event promises to be a mesmerizing sight for observers in certain parts of the world, while others can witness it virtually through live streaming.
Solar eclipses occur when the Moon passes between the Earth and the Sun, blocking the Sun's light and casting a shadow on the Earth's surface. This happens when the Moon's orbit intersects with the Earth's orbit around the Sun and is aligned in a straight line.
Depending on the alignment of the celestial bodies, solar eclipses can be total, partial, or annular. In a total eclipse, the Moon completely covers the Sun, creating a brief period of darkness. In a partial eclipse, only part of the Sun is blocked. An annular eclipse occurs when the Moon is farther from the Earth and appears smaller, so that it creates a "ring of fire" around the edge of the Sun.
The Surya Grahan on April 8, 2024, will be a total solar eclipse, with the Moon completely covering the Sun for a duration of 7.5 minutes. The eclipse will be visible in a path across North America, Mexico, and Western Europe. Unfortunately, it will not be visible in India.
NASA will be live streaming the eclipse on its YouTube channel for those who are unable to witness it in person. This live broadcast will provide stunning views of the eclipse and expert commentary.
1. Why isn't the eclipse visible in India? The path of the Moon's shadow during the eclipse will not cross India, so it will not be visible there.
2. How often do solar eclipses occur? Solar eclipses happen relatively frequently, but a total solar eclipse visible from a specific location is a rare event.
3. Is it safe to look at a solar eclipse? It is never safe to look directly at the Sun during a solar eclipse without proper eye protection. Special solar eclipse glasses or a solar filter are essential to prevent eye damage.
4. What other countries will see the 2024 eclipse? In addition to North America, Mexico, and Western Europe, the eclipse will also be visible in parts of Iceland, Greenland, and Central and South America.
5. Can I see the eclipse if I'm outside the path of totality? Yes, you can still see a partial eclipse outside the path of totality. The amount of the Sun that is covered will vary depending on your location.
As China experiences an outbreak of Human Metapneumovirus, also known as HMPV, health officials in Telangana, India have issued a list of precautions for the public, despite no reported cases in the state. The respiratory virus, which primarily affects children, immunocompromised individuals, and the elderly, can lead to a wide range of symptoms, including mild cold-like illness and more serious respiratory conditions. However, the Indian health agency has assured that there is no cause for alarm and that the country does not need to worry at this time.
Renowned nuclear scientist and key figure in India's nuclear program, Dr. R Chidambaram, passed away at the age of 88. He was known for his contributions to nuclear research and played a significant role in India's nuclear tests and the country's civil nuclear agreement with the United States. His passing marks a significant loss for the scientific community and the country's progress in the field of nuclear technology.
The recent spread of a new virus, human metapneumovirus (HMPV), in China has sparked global concerns, with reports of increasing cases among children under 14. However, Indian health experts and the Union Ministry of Health and Family Welfare have dismissed the possibility of a widespread disruption. This is due to previous knowledge about HMPV and its similarity to respiratory syncytial virus (RSV), a common respiratory pathogen. While HMPV may be a trigger for asthma in infants, it is not as deadly as Covid-19 and there is no reason for alarm yet.
China's disease control authorities have launched pilot systems to monitor and report cases of Human Metapneumovirus (HMPV), which has been linked to a recent flu outbreak. As the country continues to battle this respiratory virus, the World Health Organization calls for transparency and cooperation in researching the origins of COVID-19 to better prevent and prepare for future epidemics. Experts warn that people with weak respiratory health and weakened immune systems, as well as young children and the elderly, are most at risk for HMPV and urge preventive measures such as frequent hand washing and wearing masks.
Amidst growing concerns over the coronavirus outbreak, China confirms an increase in cases of human metapneumovirus (HMPV) among children under 14 years old, especially in northern provinces. HMPV is a respiratory illness similar to the common cold, with symptoms including coughing, runny nose, and sore throat. Health officials are urging the public not to blindly use antiviral drugs to fight HMPV, as there is currently no vaccine against the virus. Antibiotics may be prescribed in extreme cases where HMPV has caused pneumonia and a secondary bacterial infection.
The University Grants Commission (UGC) has announced draft guidelines for introducing skill-based courses and micro-credentials in higher education institutions, aligning with the objectives of the National Education Policy 2020. These courses, including emerging fields such as data analytics and AI, aim to enhance students' employability and support economic growth through a qualified workforce. Feedback on the guidelines will be accepted for the next 30 days, giving students and educators a chance to provide their input.
Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO) has successfully placed two satellites, weighing 220kg, into a circular orbit of 475 km for a crucial space docking technology demonstration. This mission also included the launch of POEM-4 with 24 payloads from startups, industries, and academia. Scientist S Somanath stated that the docking process is expected to take place on January 7, after operations at ISTRAC Bengaluru from December 31. This mission is a major step towards future space missions for India.
The Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO) launched the PSLV C60 mission on Monday night, marking a historic moment for the country's space exploration. The mission involved the launch of two spacecraft, which will demonstrate India's capabilities in orbital docking- a crucial technology for future human spaceflight and satellite servicing missions. With this achievement, India joins an elite group of countries with this technology, furthering the country's ambitions to send humans to the Moon and establish its own space station.
India's ISRO launched its Polar Satellite Launch Vehicle (PSLV-C50) carrying two spacecraft, Spacecraft A and B, to test key technologies for the future establishment of a space station. This mission is a precursor to ISRO's goal of setting up its own space station by 2035 and will aid in space docking, satellite servicing, and future interplanetary missions. The successful launch marks another milestone for India's growing space program.
A new western disturbance is expected to affect the state of Rajasthan, bringing in light to moderate rain and hailstorms on Thursday. The India Meteorological Department (IMD) has predicted this system to also bring snowfall in the Himalayan region. North India continues to face severe cold wave conditions, with some states experiencing temperatures as low as -10.6 degrees Celsius. However, some relief may be in sight for Rajasthan with these weather changes.