2024-04-07 04:00:14
The total solar eclipse of April 8 is a spectacle eagerly awaited by tens of millions of people in North America, particularly in the United States.
This rare phenomenon will provide unusual darkness in broad daylight to those in the path of totality, which will pass through Mexico, cross 15 American states before heading towards Canada, passing through Quebec and its main city, Montréal.
Credit: GreatAmericanEclipse.com
The moment of totality, which is the climax of the solar eclipse, occurs when the Moon aligns perfectly between the Terre and the Soleilmasking completely the latter from our view. This phenomenon creates a surprising darkness in broad daylight, momentarily transforming the landscape and offering a spectacle that is both ephemeral and unforgettable. The duration of the total eclipse varies by location, and for the one on April 8, it will stretch to an impressive maximum of 4 minutes and 27 seconds in specific locations like Torreón, Mexico. Only those in the narrow band of totality will have the privilege of fully observing the eclipse, where the sun is entirely hidden by the Moon.
The entire continental United States (excluding Alaska) will have a view of the partial eclipse, with approximately 15% coverage in the most distant areas.
Map of the path of totality across North America from the solar eclipse on April 8, 2024.
Credit: GreatAmericanEclipse.com
Safety is paramount: direct viewing of the Sun is only safe during totality. Outside of this time, and during partial phases, wearing suitable glasses is essential to avoid permanent eye damage.
A total solar eclipse, like the one expected on April 8, occurs when the Moon positions itself directly between the Earth and the Sun, casting its shadow on the Earth. This astronomical phenomenon only occurs when the Moon is close enough to the Earth to completely cover the disk solar seen from our planet.
A map showing the 10 largest cities in the path of the April 8, 2024 eclipse
Credit: GreatAmericanEclipse.com
For a few minutes, observers located in the path of totality experience a sudden drop in brightness in broad daylight, while the solar crownl’atmosphere exterior of the Sun usually invisible, becomes visible around of the black silhouette of the Moon. This unique conjunction of necessary conditions creates a natural spectacle as rare as it is impressive.
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