Eclipses, those captivating celestial phenomenon, have fascinated people for generations. While they may appear unusual, Nigeria has been lucky to view these cosmic miracles multiple times in the twenty-first century. An eclipse happens when one heavenly body enters the shadow of another.
The most common variety is a solar eclipse, which occurs when the moon passes between Earth and the sun, casting a shadow on our globe. There’s also the lunar eclipse, in which the Earth passes between the sun and the moon, throwing a shadow on it.
These occurrences can be viewed from anywhere on Earth where the moon is visible, with the moon appearing black or turning reddish during a lunar eclipse. Let’s take a look at some remarkable moments when Nigerians looked up to the sky in awe to witness an eclipse.
1. March 29, 2006: Total Solar Eclipse
Many Nigerians were in awe as a total solar eclipse passed over the skies of eight states, including Lagos, Abuja, and Kaduna. The eclipse lasted only three minutes, yet it left a lasting impression on those who witnessed it.
2. November 3, 2013: Partial Solar Eclipse
A few years later, another eclipse appeared, this time a partial solar eclipse. It was visible in cities throughout northern, central, and southwestern Nigeria, including Abuja, Ilorin, and Lagos. The moon partially obscured the sun, providing a stunning spectacle for onlookers.
3. July 27, 2018 – Lunar Eclipse
More recently, Nigeria had a moon eclipse. According to the National Space Research and Development Agency, the eclipse began as a partial at 6:44 p.m. and progressed to a total eclipse at 7:30 p.m. Lagos was the best place to watch this spectacle, as the moon was completely visible in its crimson grandeur.
Eclipses are incredibly spectacular phenomena that remind us of the glories of the cosmos. For Nigerians, the three eclipses in the twenty-first century have provided opportunity to pause and observe the cosmic ballet above. Whether the sun is blocked by the moon or the Earth casts its shadow on the moon, each eclipse has been a source of awe and wonder for those who are fortunate enough to see it.
