A stunning solar eclipse is almost here. The full eclipse in the U.S. in 2017 was one of the most remarkable of our time. And now we get to experience another celestial event, this one will cross all three countries within North America.
Before entering the U.S., the zone of totality will travel over a portion of northern Mexico, then pass into Texas, cross portions of the Midwest and East Coast, touch southeast Canada, then proceed out to sea, according to NASA.
Here’s what to know regarding this amazing event as it passes over North America:
Where can the total solar eclipse be viewed?
On April 8, NASA says, the total solar eclipse will cross North America, passing through Texas around 1:27 p.m. CDT and ending in Maine regarding 3:35 p.m. EDT. Anywhere along the eclipse path, the longest period of totality will be 4 minutes and 28 seconds, nearly double that of the 2017 solar eclipse.
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All contiguous states will see portions of the eclipse
Most Americans will be able to see a portion of the eclipse. The percentage of the sun that will be eclipsed by the moon is shown on the map below.
The total eclipse will enter through Texas and travel into Oklahoma, Arkansas, Missouri, Illinois, Kentucky, Indiana, Ohio, Pennsylvania, New York, Vermont, New Hampshire, and Maine. The eclipse will also be seen in small areas of Michigan and Tennessee.
Learn more: A total eclipse viewing guide
What is a solar eclipse?
Any celestial object like a moon or a planet that passes between two other bodies can create an eclipse by obscuring the view of objects like the sun.
A total eclipse occurs when the moon appears as the same size as the sun and blocks the entire disk, leading to a period of darkness lasting several minutes. The resulting “totality,” when observers can see the outermost layer of the sun’s atmosphere, known as the corona, confuses animals – nocturnal creatures stir and birds and insects fall silent.
The day before the eclipse, the moon will come closest to Earth this month. On eclipse day, that means the moon is only 223,000 miles away. That proximity will make the moon appear larger in the sky, resulting in an exceptionally extended duration of sun-blocked darkness. The Earth and moon will be 93 million miles from the sun on the day of the eclipse.
Dig deeper: Where are the best places to view?
Follow the path of totality
Several major cities will be in the direct line of darkness, including Dallas, Indianapolis, Little Rock, Arkansas, Cleveland, and Buffalo, New York.
The 115-mile-wide line of totality, which will stretch from Mazatlán, Mexico to Newfoundland, is home to an estimated 44 million people, and of those, regarding 32 million are in the United States.
The solar eclipse will be the last of its kind that will be visible for people in the U.S. until Aug. 23, 2044, according to NASA.
As we eagerly await the upcoming solar eclipse, let’s take a moment to consider the implications of this celestial phenomenon. Solar eclipses have long held significance for various cultures throughout history. They have been seen as both awe-inspiring events and harbingers of change.
In the context of current events and emerging trends, the solar eclipse can serve as a reminder of the interconnectedness of our world and the vast cosmic forces at play. It reminds us that we are part of a larger universe, where celestial events like this can capture the attention and imagination of people across different continents.
The popularity and excitement surrounding solar eclipses present unique opportunities for various industries. From tourism to scientific research, businesses and organizations can leverage the fascination and curiosity generated by these events. By providing educational materials, organizing viewing parties, or offering eclipse-related products and services, they can engage with the public and create memorable experiences.
Additionally, the solar eclipse prompts us to reflect on the fragility and beauty of our planet. As the moon momentarily blocks the sun, we are reminded of the delicate balance of our ecosystem and the need to protect our environment. It serves as a call to action, urging us to prioritize sustainability and conservation efforts.
Looking towards the future, we can anticipate a continued interest in celestial events and space exploration. Advancements in technology will offer more immersive experiences, allowing people to witness eclipses and other astronomical phenomena from the comfort of their homes or through virtual reality. This opens up possibilities for enhanced educational programs, scientific research collaborations, and even space tourism.
In light of these potential trends, industries related to astronomy, tourism, technology, and education should prepare for increased demand and adapt their strategies accordingly. Embracing innovation, investing in scientific research, and fostering partnerships will be essential to capitalize on the interest generated by events like the solar eclipse.
In conclusion, the upcoming solar eclipse presents an opportunity for us to marvel at the wonders of the universe and contemplate our place within it. As we eagerly await its arrival, let us embrace the potential future trends and seize the opportunities they offer. By understanding the implications and making informed predictions, industries can ensure they are well-positioned to meet the evolving needs and interests of the public. So mark your calendars and get ready to witness this celestial spectacle that captivates hearts and minds across North America.
