see http://cantonbecker.com/retrograde for details…
Also known as the “Ring of Fire,” an annular solar eclipse is similar to a total eclipse, except that the Moon is farther away from the Earth, so it’s not large enough to completely cover the Sun. Observers in certain parts of Africa including Congo and Madagascar will be treated to this unique celestial phenomenon. If you won’t be there yourself, check the web for photos of the event afterward!
Part of the Moon will appear darker as the full Moon passes through the faint outer edge (penumbra) of the Earth’s shadow. This is the second penumbral eclipse of the year, but will treat a different region of the globe to a similar show. Sky-watchers in the Americas will miss out on this one, but it will be visible throughout much of the rest of the world including eastern Europe, eastern Africa, Asia, and western Australia.
The Sun will beam down directly on the equator giving us just about equal amounts of day and night in most parts of the world. If you live south of the equator, this is your Spring Equinox.