Solar Eclipse 2024
On Monday, April 8, 2024, North America witnessed a rare celestial event not seen since 2017: a solar eclipse. This phenomenon occurs when the Moon passes between the Earth and the Sun, blocking all or part of the Sun’s light. It occurs exclusively during a new moon phase when the Sun and the Moon are perfectly aligned in the sky. By wearing eclipse glasses, spectators were able to witness the remarkable sight of the Moon and Sun in alignment. Some regions along the eclipse’s direct path experienced a total solar eclipse, where the Moon completely blocked the Sun, turning the daytime sky into darkness reminiscent of dusk or dawn. In these areas, observers could witness the Sun’s corona, the stars’ outer atmosphere, normally obscured by solar brightness.
The eclipse’s journey began on Mexico’s Pacific coast at approximately 11:07 a.m. PDT, marking the first location in continental North America to experience totality. From there, the eclipse traveled through the United States, passing through Texas, Oklahoma, Arkansas, Missouri, Illinois, Kentucky, Indiana, Ohio, Pennsylvania, New York, Vermont, New Hampshire, and Maine. Parts of Tennessee and Michigan also witnessed totality. Crossing into Canada, the eclipse passed through Southern Ontario, Quebec, New Brunswick, Prince Edward Island, and Cape Breton before exiting continental North America on the Atlantic coast of Newfoundland at 5:16 p.m. NDT.
The solar eclipse of 2024 captured the attention of social media, with countless posts showcasing individuals wearing eclipse glasses and capturing the event. Videos depicted millions of people gathering outdoors to witness this extraordinary occurrence. This rare celestial event brought communities together, fostering a collective appreciation for the wonders of science.
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