DHAKA: Millions of people across Indonesia and the Pacific have experienced a total solar eclipse, with parts of the region falling into complete darkness.

The eclipse began at 06:19 local time (23:19 GMT Tuesday) as the Moon started to pass directly in front of the Sun.

As the eclipse reached totality, the Moon blocked all direct sunlight, turning day into night, reports the BBC.

In Indonesia's Belitung province, a crowd gathered on a beach and witnesses spoke of a "magical" experience.

The eclipse was total in much of Indonesia and the Central Pacific, while parts of Australia and Asia experienced a partial one.

Astronomers reiterated advice not to look directly at the Sun with the naked eye, or through a telescope. Experts recommended using either a professional solar filter in front of a telescope or camera, or special eclipse-viewing glasses.

The total eclipse began at 00:15 GMT, with the moment of maximum shadow at 01:59 GMT. The celestial event will end at sunset, local time, north of Hawaii (04:34 GMT).

BDST: 1554 HRS, MAR 09, 2016
RS

** Total solar eclipse captivates Asia, the Pacific