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A Rare Hybrid Solar Eclipse Occurs Today. Here's How To Watch It Online For Free

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Excitement is building as a rare celestial event is set to take place this week.

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On Thursday, a hybrid solar eclipse will occur, with the moon blocking out the sun.

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This type of eclipse is rare and shifts from total solar eclipse to annular as the moon's shadow moves across the Earth.

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The last hybrid solar eclipse happened in 2013 and the next one won't occur until 2031.

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Skywatchers will have to wait until March 23, 2164 for the next one after that.

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The event will be visible from the South Pacific, with the moon's shadow passing over western Australia, East Timor, and Indonesia.

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Multiple free livestreams will bring the celestial action right to your screen.

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Don't ever look at the sun with the unaided eye, as it can cause permanent damage to your vision.

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Reliable solar eclipse glasses and solar filters are available for those who plan on viewing the eclipse in person.

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A pinhole camera is another method of observing the sun safely, which can be made at home.

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Those looking to take photos of the eclipse can refer to guides on how to photograph a solar eclipse and best cameras and lenses for astrophotography.

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Unfortunately, the eclipse will not be visible to viewers in India.

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The eclipse will start at 7.06 AM IST and will go on till 12.29 PM IST.

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During the eclipse, the Moon will pass between the Sun and the Earth, causing some parts to experience a total solar eclipse and others an annular eclipse.

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Eclipses can go from annular to total and vice versa, creating a hybrid eclipse.

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NASA will host a livestream of the eclipse on their NASA TV YouTube channel, with commentary from NASA experts.

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TimeAndDate.com will also host a livestream on their YouTube channel, along with the Gravity Discovery Centre & Observatory near Perth, Australia.

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Unfortunately, the only two locations where the hybrid eclipse will be seen transitioning from annular to total and then back to annular are in remote areas of the ocean.

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Whether viewing in person or through a livestream, the rare celestial event is sure to be an unforgettable experience.