What are Baily’s beads, the unique phenomenon that you can see during the total solar eclipse?

Total solar eclipses are astronomical phenomena that occur when the Sun, the Moon, and the Earth align, either fully or partially. As explained by NASA, the effect of this phenomenon results in a shadow cast over the Earth, partially or entirely blocking sunlight in certain areas. Typically, solar eclipses occur approximately twice a year.

Who were Baily’s beads named after?

During these eclipses, three relatively uncommon events often captivate astrology enthusiasts: Baily’s beads, the Diamond Ring, and Sunspots. Baily’s beads, the first of these phenomena, described by National Geographic, are small “beads” or “drops of light” that form along the irregular edge of the Moon as the solar disk either disappears or reappears.

The name originates from British astronomer Francis Baily, one of the first scientists to observe and explain this phenomenon in the 19th century. In addition to outlining the Moon’s contour, these beads also create bright points resembling luminous pearls along the darkened edge. Although short-lived, lasting only a few seconds, they leave a striking impression on observers.

What other phenomena can be seen with total solar eclipses?

Apart from Baily’s beads, other astronomical phenomena occur during solar eclipses, such as Diamond Rings and Sunspots. In the case of the former, this effect occurs when the Moon’s movement during the eclipse nearly completely covers the solar disk. When this happens, only a bright gleam remains visible, resembling a radiant diamond ring encircling the dark silhouette of our satellite.

The second phenomenon, known as Sunspots, refers to temporary regions on the solar photosphere that appear as dark areas when observing the Sun’s surface. These are essentially dark spots resulting from intense magnetic activities, indicating areas where the solar magnetic field is exceptionally strong.