Mark Your Calendars: The Next Total Solar Eclipse Is Happening in April 2024
Get ready to witness a celestial marvel! The next total solar eclipse is set to occur on Monday, April 8, 2024. This extraordinary event will mark the first total solar eclipse since August 21, 2017, and it’s a must-see for astronomy enthusiasts and anyone fascinated by the wonders of the universe.
What exactly is a total solar eclipse? During a total solar eclipse, the moon’s path crosses between the sun and the Earth, resulting in a temporary blackout of sunlight. This rare phenomenon creates an awe-inspiring moment of darkness that lasts for just a few minutes in each location along its path of totality. For those outside the path, a partial solar eclipse will be visible, offering a unique twilight effect as the sun is partially obscured.
It’s important to note the distinction between a total solar eclipse and an annular eclipse, such as the ‘ring of fire’ eclipse in 2023. The key difference lies in the moon’s distance from the earth, with the upcoming total solar eclipse made possible by the new moon’s close proximity to the earth, allowing it to completely block the sun.
So, where can you witness this breathtaking event? According to NASA, the 2024 Solar Eclipse will traverse North America, passing over Mexico, the United States, and Canada. The eclipse’s journey will commence over the South Pacific Ocean before making its way through various states and provinces, including Texas, Oklahoma, Arkansas, Missouri, Illinois, Kentucky, Indiana, Ohio, Pennsylvania, New York, Vermont, New Hampshire, Maine, and several regions in Canada. The eclipse will conclude its North American trek before exiting around 5:16 p.m. NDT (3:46 p.m. ET).
While the total eclipse will only last for a brief two to four minutes in each location, NASA has indicated that partial eclipses will precede and follow the main event, offering additional opportunities to witness this celestial spectacle.
