Annular eclipse.
An annular solar eclipse occurs when the Moon passes between
the Sun and Earth while at or near its farthest point away from Earth.
The relative distances between the Sun, Moon and Earth
make the Moon appear almost big enough to block out the Sun.
But not quite.
This creates the optical illusion of a ring of fire in the sky.
This is in contrast
to a total solar eclipse, where the Moon is a little closer to Earth
and can fully block out the Sun, darkening the sky for a short amount of time.
And get this.
Our planet is not the only one that has solar eclipses.
For example, Saturn has hundreds of moons and several rings.
Eclipses happen frequently as moons and icy ring particles
pass between Saturn and the Sun.
The Cassini spacecraft has even captured some on camera.
Now, while observing annular eclipses from here on Earth,
do it properly and don't look directly at the Sun without special
eye protection designed for solar viewing.
Happy viewing!