BANGKOK — It’s been 20 years since Thailand last saw the sun fully swallowed by shadow.
While it won’t be as large, set alarms for the morning of March 9 and pack dark shades to steal a glance as a sizable eclipse is expected. The sun will be blocked by the moon in a phenomenon visible from Thailand from sunrise at 6:29am until 8:40am throughout the country. Times may vary depending on location.
The closer to the equator; the more eclipse. Yala’s southernmost Betong district will get a 69 percent eclipse while Chiang Rai will have to settle for only 24 percent.
Bangkokians will enjoy a 41 percent moon-eaten sun at 7:32am, according to the National Astronomical Research Institute.
The institute will provide astronomy experts and telescopes for safely watching the partial eclipse at five locations nationwide:
Bangkok: Benjakiti Park, located next to MRT Queen Sirikit National Convention Center
Chiang Mai: CentralFestival Chiang Mai, rooftop
Chachoengsao: The Royal Observatory
Korat: The Royal Observatory at Suranaree University of Technology
Songkhla: Mermaid statue viewpoint, Samila Beach
A total eclipse on Oct. 24, 1995, as seen from Thailand
Indonesia is the only country that will witness a total eclipse. Live video of the eclipse, from Thailand and Indonesia, will stream online.
The next partial eclipse visible from Thailand will occur Dec. 26, 2019.
As for a total eclipse visible in Thailand, set your alarm clocks another 54 years to April 11, 2070.
Extent of eclipse visible by location. Graphic: National Astronomical Research Institute
