A solar eclipse has traditionally been viewed with considerable dread over the ages, as the great illuminator seems inexplicably to disappear from the sky as if being swallowed by some unseen force. Animals prepare for bed; the sky darkens in the middle of the day and it seems as though something unforseen and ominous is about to happen.

Over the years, the ancients noted that old structures tend to come to an end under a solar eclipse in order to make way for a new beginning or fresh start. The effect of eclipses has generally been seen to be felt for six months or so until the next eclipse again restructures the cosmic energies.

Depending where in the zodiac the eclipse occurs, stress is placed on the matters governed by that sign. A powerful Solar Eclipse like this can create a degree of turmoil both in terms of nations, governments, etc. On a more individual level, the solar eclipse can have a big effect on our personal lives when it occurs in conjunction with one of our natal planets, especially our natal Sun, Moon, or Rahu/Ketu. Where the eclipse falls in the chart is significant, as the energies expressed by its house placement will show the areas of life that are affected by the new beginning that is implied.

The Annular Solar Eclipse in Capricorn on January 15th, 2010 is the first solar eclipse of 2010. This eclipse will be visible over a wide pathway, allowing millions of people in Africa, Europe and Asia to see it. It will therefore be of considerable significance, as the more visible the eclipse, the more powerful its effects on us.

During the eclipse, the 300 km wide path of the Moon's dark shadow moves over Central and East Africa, turning north over the Seychelles in the Indian Ocean, reaching greatest eclipse over the Maldives, then continuing towards South India and Sri Lanka, moving on to Burma, then China, and finally ending just before it reaches Korea. A partial eclipse is seen within the much broader path of the Moon's penumbral shadow, which includes eastern Europe, most of Africa, Asia, and Indonesia. Unfortunately no eclipse is visible from the Americas, Western Europe, or Australia.

This eclipse occurs in Capricorn, the sign of the Goat, in conjunction with Venus on the day that Mercury turns direct after several weeks of retrograde motion. So it should be beneficent and pleasurable, releasing built-up tension, and leading strongly towards a brand new beginning for the world and its people. In western astrology, the solar eclipse occupies the 26th degree of Capricorn, conjunct the Fixed Star Terebellum on the back of the Centaur. This degree has a fondness for nature and freedom, with a love of deep thought. It gives strength, power and a tireless spirit, combined with cunning wit and a natural control of animals. It is also fond of luxury.

Solar eclipses don't often pass over populated areas, but when they do, as in this case, they appear to have significant disruptive effects on the people and nations concerned (e.g., economic or political crises, civil unrest). Africa, Sri Lanka, and East Asia contain many trouble spots, so let us hope that no big tragedies occur. Solar Eclipses also can trigger or amplify natural events in the regions they affect (e.g., severe weather, earthquakes). The eclipse being in Capricorn means that people with Cardinal signs (Cancer; Libra; Capricorn; Aries) featured in their birthcharts are more likely to be affected. The next eclipse of the Sun will be on July 11th, 2010.

- Based on material from astrology.com and others. Many thanks to them!