So cool!! But Malaysians can't witness it anyway... 

Double solar eclipse for CNY

By ANDREA FILMER

PENANG: Two eclipses usher in the Year of the Rat in that rare phenomenon seen only once in 18 years – a partial solar eclipse on the first day of Chinese New Year and another on Chap Goh Meh. 

However, Malaysians will not be able to witness either one due to the alignment of earth, sun and moon.  

This will be the first time in 18 years that the phenomenon would occur, said Dr Chuah Chong Cheng, a Yijing scholar who also studies astronomy and astrology. 

“The first eclipse of the year, an annular solar eclipse, will happen today, while a total solar eclipse is scheduled for Feb 21 which is Chap Goh Meh.  

“The eclipses, one on Chu Yi (Mandarin for the first day of Chinese New Year) and the other on Chap Goh Meh, is a very unique occurrence.  

“It happened in 1990 and it will occur again in 2026,” Dr Chuah said. 

Dr Chuah said people in the western hemisphere would have the chance to see the two eclipses but as Chinese New Year is a global celebration, it was an omen for all. 

Going by past trends, Dr Chuah said that there was a possibility that this year may kick off big developments for Malaysia, surpassing earlier mega projects, from which the people would benefit.  

“Many mega projects kicked off in the country in 1990 and there is a chance we will see that again,” he said. 

When contacted, Universiti Sains Malaysia Astronomy Club academic advisor Dr Chong Hon Yew said the eclipses were very special. 

“An average of two solar eclipses occur every year, so for both to happen during the Chinese New Year celebrations is something special. 

“Some very traditional Chinese may feel that eclipses during this time is pantang (taboo), but when talking about space and eclipses, there is actually nothing to fear,” he added.  

(Taken from Star Online)