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First solar eclipse of new decade overshadowed by clouds, rain

First solar eclipse of new decade overshadowed by clouds, rain
By Joanne Chan, Channel NewsAsia | Posted: 15 January 2010 1904 hrs

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	Video First solar eclipse of new decade overshadowed by clouds, rain

 
SINGAPORE: For half the world on Friday, the sun was briefly reduced to a blazing ring, as the moon passed in front of it.

More than 2,500 people gathered at the Science Centre to witness the first solar eclipse of the new decade. But dark clouds and rain put crimps into the festivities.

At 2.45pm on Friday, Singapore was to have witnessed a partial eclipse - with the moon covering about 30 per cent of the sun.

Astronomy buffs and families made the most of the occasion to enjoy a day out. Many came armed with special filter glasses and even telescopes to witness this rare phenomenon. Unfortunately, an overcast sky blocked all view of the sun.

A sudden shower forced everyone indoors, and observers were reduced to watching a simulation of the eclipse. But the rain passed quickly and the sun soon made a reappearance.

The solar eclipse also made a fine present for the centre's outgoing chief.

Dr Chew Tuan Chiong, outgoing chief executive, Science Centre Singapore, said: "It is wonderful to have a solar eclipse on the last day of my work. One of the reasons is when I see the crowds turn up for an event, even on a weekday afternoon, it already makes me nostalgic."

Singapore will experience the next total solar eclipse in 2019.

- CNA/sc 

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