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Message from Fred Espenak:
This annular eclipse is really special because it is the longest
eclipse of the entire 3rd Millennium. From our eclipse camp
on the central line in Kenya, the annular phase will last an
incredible 8.5 minutes and the weather prospects there are the
best in Africa.
The interesting thing about a long annular eclipse is that the
Moon is much smaller than the Sun. In this case, the Moon's
diameter is just 91% the diameter of the Sun. At mid-annularity,
the Moon will only cover 83% of the Sun's disk (by area). To
help visualize this I've prepared the
diagram below. See how thick the annular ring is? And look at
that enormous crescent Sun at 2nd and 3rd contacts. It reminds
me of the crescent on the Turkish flag.
You can read all about the eclipse on the special NASA web page
for the event:
http://eclipse.gsfc.nasa.gov/
Along with the eclipse there will be plenty of safari game drives
to see & photograph Africa's animals in Samburu Park, Lake
Nakuru, and Masai Mara Park. We will also enjoy views of spectacular
Mount Kenya, one of the highest mountains in Africa (17,057
ft). We'll even cross the Equator as we drive about the savanna.
I last visited Kenya way back in 1980 and I'm eager to return.
The people, wildlife and scenery are truly fantastic.
This trip will be limited to be a small group (10-20 people)
to give us a more intimate experience (much like our annular
eclipse trips in 2003 and 2005). I hope you can join us!
Best,
Fred Espenak
P.S. If you would like to receive a copy
of the official NASA eclipse bulletin for this eclipse send
an email to info01@mreclipse.com
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