Seattle, WA – The next total solar eclipse in the United States, the first in seven years, is set to take place this spring. If you missed the last total solar eclipse in North America on August 21, 2017, or the annular solar eclipse on October 14, 2023, be sure to mark your calendar for the upcoming total solar eclipse.
A total solar eclipse occurs when the Moon passes between the Sun and Earth, completely blocking the face of the Sun. During this event, the sky darkens as if it were dawn or dusk, and people along the path of totality have the opportunity to witness the Sun’s corona, the outer atmosphere that is usually obscured by the bright face of the Sun.
The next total solar eclipse is scheduled for Monday, April 8. The duration of totality will last four minutes and 27 seconds, almost double that of the total solar eclipse in 2017. Although there will be another total solar eclipse visible elsewhere on August 12, 2026, the next one visible from the U.S. won’t occur until August 23, 2044.
The path of totality stretches from Mexico to Canada, crossing through various cities in the United States. Some of the U.S. cities in the path of totality include Dallas, Texas; Little Rock, Arkansas; Cleveland, Ohio; and Buffalo, New York.
For those in Delaware, the partial eclipse will begin at 11:42 a.m., with the full eclipse becoming visible at 12:38 p.m. The maximum eclipse will occur at 2:17 p.m., and the full eclipse will end at 3:55 p.m., followed by the partial eclipse ending at 4:52 p.m.
It is important to view the solar eclipse safely. Directly looking at the sun without proper eye protection designed for solar viewing can cause severe damage to the retinas and lead to blindness. Eclipse glasses can be purchased to ensure safe viewing, and indirect viewing methods such as using a pinhole projector are also recommended.
Intriguingly, during a total solar eclipse, the behavior of wildlife can be affected. Nocturnal animals may wake up, mistaking the darkened sky for night, while diurnal animals may prepare to sleep, thinking it is time for sunset.
So mark your calendars and make sure to prepare for the upcoming total solar eclipse. It’s a rare event that provides a unique opportunity to witness the celestial beauty and power of our solar system.
Key Facts:
– The next total solar eclipse in the United States will occur on Monday, April 8.
– The duration of totality will last four minutes and 27 seconds.
– The path of totality stretches from Mexico to Canada, passing through various U.S. cities.
– For safe viewing, it is important to use proper eye protection designed for solar viewing.