On Saturday, October 14th, Belizeans across the country were mesmerized by the annular solar eclipse. The celestial spectacle was also the inspiration for cultural events in Belize. In San Pedro, Ambergris Caye, locals and tourists took to the beach to watch the eclipse, while others enjoyed it with a drink from a sailing cruise along the Mesoamerican Reef.
This eclipse occurs when the moon passes between the Earth and the sun, blocking out most of the sun’s light. The annular name comes from the fact that just a thin ring of light is visible during the completion of the eclipse. The anticipated event had islanders looking to the sky as early as 9AM. While many prepared at home to watch the spectacular show from their terraces, verandas, or the beach, a group of islanders and tourists departed on an all-day snorkel and chill cruise aboard the Island Dream Tours boat, YOLO.
The tour stopped at the Hol Chan Marine Reserve, where those wanting to snorkel jumped into the crystal-clear waters with the barrier reef in the background as the eclipse began. The YOLO’s crew handed out eye protection glasses to watch the eclipse. By 11:30AM, the solar eclipse was at its climax, and most of the snorkelers were on the deck enjoying this rare and spectacular phenomenon. For a brief period, the sunlight dimmed as the moon was between the sun and Earth, casting a radiant ‘ring of fire.’ There were waves of excitement as everyone gazed at the sky, witnessing this treat from nature.
After the ring of fire slowly faded, the YOLO tour continued to other locations within the reserve for more snorkeling and fun in the water. Guests continued watching the remainder of the solar eclipse while enjoying great food and refreshments. Many guests described the experience as incredible and recommend anyone to go on a cruise whenever there is a natural phenomenon like a solar eclipse.
Solar eclipse in other parts of the country
There was a cultural event in Belize City with artistic Maya presentations and ceremonies at the House of Culture.
Events were also held at Maya archaeological sites, such as Altun Ha, Lamanai, and Cerro Maya. These venues provided specialized viewing glasses to those attending. At Altun Ha, twelve bus-loads of people, some from cruise ship tours, and countless residents and visitors arrived to witness the event. Groups and families picnicked under shady trees while many climbed the Temple of the Masonry Altars and the Sun God’s Tomb to get a birds-eye view of the eclipse while overlooking the expansive grounds. The crowd cheered under the darkened sky as the eclipse reached the ‘ring of fire’ phase.
The total annular solar eclipse lasted for about five minutes from parts of the United States of America to parts of Mexico, Belize, and South America. Other areas of the western hemisphere experienced a partial solar eclipse. The next ring of fire eclipse will return to this region by 2047.
