Soon, the inhabitants of North America will be able to experience their first solar eclipse in almost a decade. That is why there is a lot of anticipation for this important astronomical event.
The next total solar eclipse is not expected until August 2044, so taking advantage of this moment is crucial. Humans have been fascinated by the sky and the stars since the first moment they looked up at the heavens.
And even if you don’t live in the path of totality or you’re not one of the millions of people who will travel to see the great event, there are many ways to participate and watch the total solar eclipse online. But first, let’s explain the event today.
What is a total solar eclipse?
“It is an alignment of the Sun, the Moon, and the Earth in such a way that the Moon passes directly between the Sun and the Earth, preventing sunlight from reaching the Earth’s surface,” explains Noah Petro, scientist of NASA’s Artemis III project.
If you are in the path, you will see how the Moon completely covers the Sun. Outside the main path? You may still see a partial eclipse, where the moon covers a part of the sun.
Despite the involvement of the moon, a solar eclipse should not be confused with a lunar eclipse. During lunar eclipses, the moon passes into the Earth’s shadow and takes on a dark red color. Lunar eclipses are visible in most of the hemisphere that is facing the Moon at that time.
When is the solar eclipse?
The total solar eclipse, which will cross part of North America, will take place on Monday, April 8th. Depending on where you are in the path of totality, the solar eclipse will occur in the afternoon and could last about four minutes. For more information, please refer to the NASA map that details the exact time when different cities in the US will experience the total eclipse.
And the partial eclipse? Check out this tweet we left down here to find out when the eclipse will occur in your place of residence. Even if you’re not in the main path, you can surely enjoy this unique moment.
Where will it be visible?
Although the total solar eclipse will mainly occur in Mexico and the United States, a small part of eastern Canada is also in the path of totality.
The three main Mexican cities where the total solar eclipse can be seen are Mazatlán, Durango, and Torreón.
In the USA there are numerous places where you can see the total eclipse. Some of them are Dallas (Texas), Russellville (Arkansas), Carbondale (Illinois), Greenwood (Indiana), and Buffalo (New York).
Finding a place where there are no clouds is crucial to enjoy the best visual experience.
Where can it be seen on the Internet?
If you can’t see it in person, NASA will livestream the solar eclipse on YouTube. Viewers of the free online broadcast can see telescopic views of the eclipse, as well as helpful insights from space experts.
Do you want to see it through an app on your smartphone? NASA also offers a free app, for iOS and Android, where you can watch videos of the total solar eclipse.
Is it really necessary to wear glasses for the eclipse?
The answer is yes. And it’s not enough to just wear regular sunglasses: you need to wear ISO certified eye protection for direct observation of the sun.
In the best case scenario, you can get a pair of free solar eclipse glasses at a local library or observatory that distributes ISO certified protection before the event. Although it is possible to buy the glasses online, be wary of counterfeits.
Visit the website of the American Astronomical Society to check a database of verified suppliers. At least if you live in the United States.
