A total solar eclipse will occur on April 8, 2024, crossing North America from Mexico to Canada. The path of totality will be 115 miles wide and will last for up to 4 minutes and 28 seconds.
Total solar eclipse on April 8, 2024Opens in a new window
solarsystem.nasa.gov
Total solar eclipse on April 8, 2024
The eclipse will begin in Mexico at 11:14 a.m. CST, and will cross into the United States at approximately 12:37 p.m. CST. The maximum eclipse will occur over Carbondale, Illinois, at 1:18 p.m. CST. The eclipse will then cross into Canada at approximately 2:01 p.m. CST, and will end in Newfoundland at approximately 2:44 p.m. AST.
This eclipse will be the first total solar eclipse to cross the continental United States since August 21, 2017. It will be the first total solar eclipse to cross Canada since October 24, 2004.
If you are lucky enough to be in the path of totality, be sure to take safety precautions. Never look directly at the Sun during an eclipse, even if it is partially obscured. Instead, use special solar viewing glasses or a solar filter to safely view the eclipse.
You can also watch the eclipse online or on television. There will be many live broadcasts of the eclipse, so you can enjoy the spectacle from the comfort of your own home.
This is an amazing opportunity to see a rare astronomical event. So mark your calendars and plan to witness the total solar eclipse on April 8, 2024.
Additional Resources:
NASA’s Solar Eclipse Page: https://solarsystem.nasa.gov/eclipses/
Timeanddate’s Eclipse Page: https://www.timeanddate.com/eclipse/
Great American Eclipse: https://www.greatamericaneclipse.com/
Tips for Viewing the Eclipse
If you are in the path of totality, you will be able to see the Sun completely disappear behind the Moon. This is a truly awe-inspiring sight.
If you are not in the path of totality, you will only be able to see a partial eclipse. The Sun will appear to be a crescent during the eclipse.
It is important to use safety glasses or a solar filter to view the eclipse. Never look directly at the Sun, even during a partial eclipse.
You can also watch the eclipse online or on television. There will be many live broadcasts of the eclipse, so you can enjoy the spectacle from the comfort of your own home.
Safety Precautions
Never look directly at the Sun, even during a partial eclipse.
Use special solar viewing glasses or a solar filter to safely view the eclipse.
Do not use welder’s goggles or sunglasses, as these are not safe for viewing the eclipse.
If you are pregnant or have a medical condition, consult your doctor before viewing the eclipse.
Enjoy the Eclipse!
The total solar eclipse on April 8, 2024, is a once-in-a-lifetime event. So make sure to take the time to enjoy it. And remember to use safety precautions to protect your eyes.