Total Solar Eclipse 2008

August 1, 2008, as photographed from the Ob Sea, Siberia Russia (near Novosibirsk)

These photos were taken on the shores of the Ob Sea (Novosibirsk reservoir), some 20 or so miles south of the Siberia, Russia city of Novosibirsk. Duration of totality was 2m 18s and local time of totality was 5:45 p.m., from this location. From start to finish, the eclipse lasted 2h 4m. Siberian taiga-forest birch trees, which define the landscape across this region, provided the perfect setting. Mercury is the dot closest to the sun, and Venus the brighter one nearer the tree on the left.

Photos from around the viewing site: