Total Solar Eclipse 2024 Begins in USA, Mexico

8 April 2024Neeraj Mishra

The 2024 Total Solar Eclipse Sweeping Across North America

This is significant because the next total solar eclipse won’t be visible for another 20 years.

On April 8th, North America is poised to witness a breathtaking celestial display as a total solar eclipse graces the skies, temporarily shrouding portions of Mexico, the United States, and Canada in darkness. This rare occurrence, where the moon positions itself between the sun and Earth, gradually obscuring and eventually blocking out the sun’s face, is a sight to behold.

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The Path of Totality: From Mexico to Canada

Stretching across a defined path known as the “path of totality,” this eclipse will traverse a remarkable route, touching regions of Texas, Oklahoma, Arkansas, Missouri, Illinois, Kentucky, Indiana, Ohio, Pennsylvania, New York, Vermont, New Hampshire, and Maine.

Additionally, partial views of the eclipse will be observable in Tennessee and Michigan, ensuring that its grandeur is witnessed by many.

A Momentous Occurrence: Rarity and Significance

Next total solar eclipse won’t be visible for another 20 years

This celestial event holds particular significance due to its rarity.

The last total solar eclipse in the United States happened in August 2017. The next one won’t happen until August 2044. Then, in 2045, there will be another eclipse that goes from one coast to the other.

Astrophysicist Fred Espenak highlights the substantial interval between these occurrences, with the previous total solar eclipse in the region dating back to 1979.

Magnitude and Duration: The 2024 Eclipse

In terms of magnitude, the 2024 eclipse surpasses its 2017 counterpart. With a path of totality nearly 60% wider and an eclipse duration approximately 60% longer, this spectacle promises an unparalleled experience.

Some locations within the path may even witness up to four and a half minutes of totality, offering ample time to marvel at the cosmic ballet unfolding above.

Timing and Duration Across the United States

The timing of the eclipse varies across the United States, adding to the anticipation and excitement.

For instance, totality will occur at 1:27 p.m. CDT in Eagle Pass, Texas, lasting an impressive 4 minutes and 23 seconds.
Meanwhile, in Presque Isle, Maine, totality will commence at 3:32 p.m. EDT, with a duration of 2 minutes and 47 seconds.
These variations provide opportunities for individuals across the country to witness this awe-inspiring event.

Anticipation and Future Occurrences

After April 8th, North America will not witness another total solar eclipse for the next two decades, underscoring the rarity and significance of this event.