Photographer: Jongsun Lee on Unsplash
As the buzz around an impending solar eclipse – which will be visible in North America – fills online forums and news outlets, misconceptions and fears often accompany the excitement.
Amidst claims of prolonged darkness, inclement weather – as experienced in the Western Cape – and apocalyptic scenarios, Professor Lerothodi Leeuw, a renowned astronomer from the Department of Physics and Astronomy at The University of the Western Cape (UWC), shed light on the truth behind solar eclipses and allayed public concerns. He was interviewed on SABC News on Sunday.
"A solar eclipse, particularly a total solar eclipse, occurs when the moon aligns perfectly between Earth and the sun, blocking its light," explained Prof Leeuw, the first black South African to obtain a Bachelor of Science degree at the Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT) in the United States of America.
This alignment, he clarified, creates a temporary darkness similar to night during the daytime.
Addressing apprehensions about the eclipse's impact, Prof Leeuw assured that there will not be three days of darkness in South Africa or significant shifts in weather patterns. In fact, the eclipse will not be visible here.
South Africa experienced one in December 2002; another is expected on November 25, 2030.
"Solar eclipses are natural phenomena caused by the moon's position relative to Earth and the sun, not supernatural events," he emphasised.
Contrary to sensational claims, solar eclipses are predictable astronomical occurrences. The upcoming eclipse, visible mainly in the USA, Mexico, and Canada, follows a specific path of totality, lasting approximately four minutes at its peak.
Reflecting on past eclipses, he said it occurred without any catastrophic consequences.
During the eclipse, cooler temperatures and altered animal behaviour will be observed, which are natural phenomena.
As discussions veer towards celestial myths and superstitions, Prof Leeuw underscored the importance of scientific understanding over superstition.
"Solar eclipses reaffirm Earth's round shape and the predictability of astronomical events," he stated, debunking age-old myths about flat Earth theories.
"Understanding the cosmos enriches our appreciation of the universe," he concluded, urging the public to embrace scientific exploration and dispel unfounded fears.
About Professor Leeuw:
Lerothodi Lapula Leeuw, a distinguished astrophysicist and professor at the University of the Western Cape, boasts a remarkable academic journey.
With degrees from MIT, Columbia University, the University of Cape Town, and the University of Central Lancashire, he excels in research on galaxy evolution and astroparticle physics.
Leeuw held prestigious positions at institutions like NASA Ames Research Centre and contributed significantly to South Africa's academic landscape.
Honoured with the NRF Special Recognition Award and various grants, he actively engages in civic duties, representing South Africa in international forums.
Leeuw's impact extends through over 50 publications, including in Science, showcasing his dedication to advancing astrophysics.
Prof Leeuw’s inspiring story was featured in a Profmed Medical Scheme advert. Watch the advert here:
As the buzz around an impending solar eclipse – which will be visible in North America – fills online forums and news outlets, misconceptions and fears often accompany the excitement.
Amidst claims of prolonged darkness, inclement weather – as experienced in the Western Cape – and apocalyptic scenarios, Professor Lerothodi Leeuw, a renowned astronomer from the Department of Physics and Astronomy at The University of the Western Cape (UWC), shed light on the truth behind solar eclipses and allayed public concerns. He was interviewed on SABC News on Sunday.
"A solar eclipse, particularly a total solar eclipse, occurs when the moon aligns perfectly between Earth and the sun, blocking its light," explained Prof Leeuw, the first black South African to obtain a Bachelor of Science degree at the Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT) in the United States of America.
This alignment, he clarified, creates a temporary darkness similar to night during the daytime.
Addressing apprehensions about the eclipse's impact, Prof Leeuw assured that there will not be three days of darkness in South Africa or significant shifts in weather patterns. In fact, the eclipse will not be visible here.
South Africa experienced one in December 2002; another is expected on November 25, 2030.
"Solar eclipses are natural phenomena caused by the moon's position relative to Earth and the sun, not supernatural events," he emphasised.
Contrary to sensational claims, solar eclipses are predictable astronomical occurrences. The upcoming eclipse, visible mainly in the USA, Mexico, and Canada, follows a specific path of totality, lasting approximately four minutes at its peak.
Reflecting on past eclipses, he said it occurred without any catastrophic consequences.
During the eclipse, cooler temperatures and altered animal behaviour will be observed, which are natural phenomena.
As discussions veer towards celestial myths and superstitions, Prof Leeuw underscored the importance of scientific understanding over superstition.
"Solar eclipses reaffirm Earth's round shape and the predictability of astronomical events," he stated, debunking age-old myths about flat Earth theories.
"Understanding the cosmos enriches our appreciation of the universe," he concluded, urging the public to embrace scientific exploration and dispel unfounded fears.
About Professor Leeuw:
Lerothodi Lapula Leeuw, a distinguished astrophysicist and professor at the University of the Western Cape, boasts a remarkable academic journey.
With degrees from MIT, Columbia University, the University of Cape Town, and the University of Central Lancashire, he excels in research on galaxy evolution and astroparticle physics.
Leeuw held prestigious positions at institutions like NASA Ames Research Centre and contributed significantly to South Africa's academic landscape.
Honoured with the NRF Special Recognition Award and various grants, he actively engages in civic duties, representing South Africa in international forums.
Leeuw's impact extends through over 50 publications, including in Science, showcasing his dedication to advancing astrophysics.
Prof Leeuw’s inspiring story was featured in a Profmed Medical Scheme advert. Watch the advert here:
