By Peter Orengo

Some parts of the world woke up to witness a rare occurrence — a total solar eclipse where the planets are aligned with the sun.

Experts had said it would be the longest total solar eclipse of the 21st century, lasting at greatest eclipse six minutes, 39 seconds.

The Metrological Department said the occurrence would not be visible in Kenya as the country faces the back of the alignment.

"The path of the eclipse begins in India and crosses through Nepal, Bangladesh, Bhutan, and China. It will be around 3am in Kenya so we will not witness it," Acting Assistant Director for weather forecast services told The Standard by telephone yesterday.

He, however, said the country would witness an annular solar eclipse in January next year.

During a total solar eclipse, the moon comes between the sun and the Earth, casting a shadow on the Earth. People in the area with the shadow experience what is called "total solar eclipse".

For enthusiasts and tourists, a solar eclipse provides a rare opportunity to view the outer atmosphere.

Meteorologists said China was going to be the best place to observe the eclipse, as it would cover an area 250km wide and 10,000km long.

Superstitions persist throughout the world regarding eclipses with many associating the occurrence with disasters.

In India, astrologers predicted violence and turmoil across the world as a result of this week’s total solar eclipse. But scientists played down claims of evil portent in connection with the natural spectacle.