Millions witness rare eclipse

Stunning images of rare eclipse from around the world

Stargazers enjoyed a rare treat as a full eclipse was seen in the skies over parts of America and Asia for the first time in 18 years.

The moon moving across the sun's path as seen from China (1/3)
The moon moving across the sun's path as seen from China (1/3) Credit: Reuters
The moon moving across the sun's path as seen from China (2/3)
The moon moving across the sun's path as seen from China (2/3) Credit: Reuters
The moon moving across the sun's path as seen from China (3/3)
The moon moving across the sun's path as seen from China (3/3) Credit: Reuters

An annular eclipse occurs when the moon's orbit is at its furthest point from the Earth and closer to the much larger sun. That juxtaposition allows the moon to block more than 90 percent of the sun's rays when the two orbs slide into alignment in space.

An annular solar eclipse in seen from Machida, on the outskirts of Tokyo
An annular solar eclipse in seen from Machida, on the outskirts of Tokyo Credit: PA

The eclipse first become visible over southern Asia and moved across the Pacific to the northwest, traveling on a diagonal path toward the southeast. It then moved over parts of Oregon, Nevada, Utah, Arizona and New Mexico, before it disappeared in Texas with the sunset.

An annular solar eclipse is seen briefly during a break in clouds over Taipei, Taiwan
An annular solar eclipse is seen briefly during a break in clouds over Taipei, Taiwan Credit: PA