Widespread Enthusiasm over Solar Eclipse

The “ring of fire” solar eclipse seen in some parts in Indonesia was welcomed enthusiastically by locals. The natural phenomenon served as a medium for education, tourism and a source of gratitude.

KOMPAS/RONY ARIYANTO NUGROHO

The “ring of fire” is seen on Thursday (26/12/2019) in the sky above Bunsur Field of Sungai Apit district in Siak regency, Riau. The local people and migrant community in Siak enthusiastically welcomed the annular solar eclipse, the second eclipse that could be observed in Indonesia after the partial lunar eclipse on 17 July 2019.

SIAK, KOMPAS – Locals enthusiastically welcomed the annular, or “ring of fire”, solar eclipse seen in parts of Indonesia on Thursday (26/12/2019). Discussions on the rare phenomenon were led not only by scientists and religious preachers. It was also celebrated through cultural events involving people from various backgrounds.

At midday on Thursday, the sun turned into a ring of fire over Siak regency in Riau. The sky, which had turned red only moments before, darkened despite the lack of clouds. Thousands of locals who had gathered at the Kampung Bunsur field in Sungai Apit, Siak, witnessed the change through solar glasses and expressed their awe almost in unison. The 2019 Annular Solar Eclipse Festival organizers then asked the attendees to join in chanting the shalawat (Islamic praises).