On April 8th this year there will be a total solar eclipse. The last total solar eclipse occurred in 2017 and lasted for around 2 minutes. The solar eclipse this year is predicted to last around 4 ½ minutes almost double the time of the last one. The solar eclipse occurs when the moon orbits in the sun’s path at the right angle where it appears to cover it. Depending on where you are on the planet, the moon might appear to completely cover the sun. This leads to a temporary darkness that will last for a varying amount of time depending on where in the country you are and where on the path you are. The path of totality this year will pass through Mexico then come through the US from Texas all the way to Maine then continues into the eastern part of Canada. Below is a link to the path of totality so you can see where you are in the path. Here in Florida, we are unfortunately out of the path of totality, but we will still be able to experience a partial solar eclipse. Below is a list of how to prepare if you are planning on watching the solar eclipse on Monday, April 8th.
Cultural Significance
Ancient cultures came up with stories and myths to help explain the phenomena of the solar eclipse which have continued to be shared even today. From a bear walking along the Milky Way (used by the Poma tribe) to Ra (the Egyptian sun god) being chased by his nemesis, a snake, these stories have been passed down and told for generations to explain and celebrate this natural phenomenon. Many religions around the world have also found ways to explain the solar eclipse by viewing it as a message from God or viewing it as a spiritual time. Some cultures and religions saw this time as a test or a reminder from their God or gods intended to scare them while others saw it as a time for spirituality or reflection.
Ways to Prepare:
- Get eye protection
- When staring at the solar eclipse, it is important to remember you are still staring at the sun and will need special eyewear to directly watch the solar eclipse- SUNGLASSES ARE NOT PROTECTIVE ENOUGH
- You can find different ways to make your own at-home eye protection with cereal boxes and tin foil or other household items online
- Here is a link for an example of homemade solar eclipse glasses/viewers
- Know the time of the eclipse
- Due to the rotation of the Earth within the path of totality, make sure you know the time that the solar eclipse will be occurring in your area.
Solar Eclipse Path of Totality Map:
Total solar eclipse April 8, 2024: Path, time and the best places to view – ABC News (go.com)
2024 Solar Eclipse Map: Path of Totality and More – The New York Times (nytimes.com)