A Gargoylian Dance: The Enchanting Annular Eclipse in Asheville, North Carolina
The moon passed in front of the sun, creating an annular eclipse as it silhouetted a gargoyle atop Jackson Building in downtown Asheville, North Carolina, United States, on Saturday, October 14, 2023. Photo Copyright 2023 Asheville Photography LLC | @PhotoAvl

A Gargoylian Dance: The Enchanting Annular Eclipse in Asheville, North Carolina


The Perfect Alignment

Eclipses are rare celestial events, and this annular eclipse was no exception. It occurs when the moon, positioned in its orbit, aligns itself perfectly between the Earth and the sun, casting a dark silhouette that doesn’t completely cover the sun, leaving a radiant ring, or “ring of fire,” as it is often called. In Asheville, on this particular day, nature was about to put on a show that would leave spectators in awe.

The Jackson Building: A Witness to History

The Jackson Building, a historic gem in downtown Asheville, played a special role in this eclipse. Perched atop the building is a gargoyle, a stone creature with a peculiar, otherworldly charm. As the moon started its journey across the sun’s path, the gargoyle seemed to come to life, gazing up at the celestial dance unfolding above. Its grotesque beauty in stark contrast to the cosmic spectacle made for an enchanting scene, one that was captured for posterity.

Leave a Reply