The solar eclipse of April 8, 2024 will be a total solar eclipse. It will be the first total solar eclipse to cross the United States since 2017, and it will be the first to cross the entire country since 1979.
The eclipse will begin at sunrise in Mexico and move across the United States, ending at sunset in Canada. The path of totality, where the Moon completely blocks the Sun, will be about 100 miles (160 km) wide and will cross 13 states:
- Texas
- Oklahoma
- Arkansas
- Missouri
- Illinois
- Indiana
- Ohio
- Pennsylvania
- New York
- Vermont
- New Hampshire
- Maine
- Canada
The total solar eclipse will be visible for up to 4 minutes and 26 seconds along the path of totality. Observers outside the path of totality will see a partial solar eclipse, where the Moon covers only part of the Sun.
Safety
It is important to view a solar eclipse safely. Looking directly at the Sun, even during an eclipse, can cause permanent damage to your eyes. Never look directly at the Sun without proper eye protection, such as eclipse glasses or a solar filter.
How to View the Eclipse
There are several ways to view the solar eclipse safely. You can:
- Use eclipse glasses or a solar filter. Eclipse glasses are specially designed to filter out harmful ultraviolet and infrared radiation from the Sun. Solar filters can be attached to telescopes or binoculars to make them safe for viewing the Sun.
- Project the image of the Sun onto a surface. You can do this by using a pinhole projector or a telescope.
- Watch a live stream of the eclipse online. Many organizations will be broadcasting the eclipse live on the Internet.
What to Expect
During a total solar eclipse, the Moon completely blocks the Sun’s light. This creates a dramatic effect, as the sky darkens and the stars become visible. The temperature may also drop suddenly, and animals may behave strangely.
The total solar eclipse of April 8, 2024 will be a rare and awe-inspiring event. If you are in the path of totality, be sure to take the time to experience it safely.
Native American Teachings on the Eclipse
How Scientists Need Your Help Observing the April 8 Eclipse
People inside or near the totality can sign up to take part in at least four different projects, from watching animal behavior to photographing the sun’s corona, weather permitting, to recording the soundscape of the eclipse. There are also state-level projects being organized in Indiana, Ohio and elsewhere. Click HERE to learn about the Solar Eclipse Safari project and take part in the national effort to gather information from this rare celestial event.
Solar Eclipse Safari
