On April 8, 2024, North American sky watchers and inquisitive onlookers will witness their first total solar eclipse of the year. This unusual cosmic phenomenon covers Mexico, the US, and Canada, sandwiching the moon between the sun and the Earth, resulting in utter darkness during the day.
The last total solar eclipse in America was in August 2017. US residents won’t see a total solar eclipse until August 2044, making the approaching eclipse extra special.
This shooting star will start in Mexico and head northeast through eastern Canada. Approximately 330 million Americans may witness this magical event.
NASA predicts the April 8, 2024, eclipse will last 3–4 minutes. In the partial phase, the moon covers the sun in a crescent for 70 to 80 minutes before concealing it completely.
As it orbits the sun, the moon’s silhouette reflects the solar system’s lights, creating a starry night. During a total solar eclipse, that blinding brightness is completely hidden.
While the eclipse won’t pass through Mexico, the US, or Canada, individuals there will be able to see a partial eclipse, where the moon covers part of the sun. Complete solar eclipses bring night and visible stars and planets, lowering the temperature.
Another total solar eclipse will occur in August 2026 in Greenland, Iceland, Spain, and Portugal.
Remember that watching a partial solar eclipse directly is harmful and damaging to the eyes. However, seeing a total solar eclipse is important because of how it happens and how it requires special timing and safety measures like using cameras or solar viewing glasses. Don’t miss this fantastic event. Mark April 8, 2024, on your calendar!
