Maximize Your Viewing Experience: The Ultimate Guide to the 2024 Total Solar Eclipse
In just a few weeks’ time, on 8 April 2024, a total solar eclipse is set to captivate skywatchers across the United States. This celestial event, which occurs when the Moon completely covers the Sun, will trace a path from Texas to Maine, offering a unique opportunity for astronomers, scientists, and the general public to witness the awe-inspiring beauty of the sun’s corona. To make the most of this once-in-a-lifetime event, here’s everything you need to know about maximizing your viewing experience.
What is a total solar eclipse?
A total solar eclipse occurs when the Moon passes between the Sun and the Earth, blocking all sunlight. Kirsten M Ellenbogen, an expert in science education and president & CEO at Great Lakes Science Center, explains that during a total solar eclipse, “the Moon appears, to us here on Earth, to block the sun’s entire disc in the sky.” This phenomenon is quite rare, happening approximately once every 18 months. However, what makes the upcoming eclipse so exciting is that it will be visible across North America, providing a clear view of totality for many people.
How can I watch the eclipse safely?
It is crucial to protect your eyes when viewing a solar eclipse. Looking directly at the sun can cause severe damage to your eyes, even if it doesn’t immediately cause pain. The American Astronomical Society recommends using approved solar eclipse glasses from reputable companies that meet the international standard ISO 12312-2. These glasses provide extra protection and allow you to safely look directly at the Sun before and after totality.
If you don’t have access to eclipse glasses, there are alternative methods for safe viewing. Indirect viewing, using a colander or making a pinhole projector, are options that allow you to observe the eclipse without looking directly at the Sun. Additionally, during totality, when the entire disk of the Sun is blocked, you can view the solar corona with your naked eye without special glasses.
Where to watch the 2024 total solar eclipse
To witness the full splendor of the 2024 total solar eclipse, several locations across the United States offer unique viewing experiences and exciting events.
Carbondale, Illinois:
Carbondale, Illinois, is a prime spot for eclipse enthusiasts. Having experienced totality in 2017, Carbondale will once again be in the path of totality in 2024. The Southern Illinois Crossroads Eclipse Festival at Southern Illinois University Carbondale’s Saluki Stadium is a must-visit event. The festival features talks, presentations, solar telescopes, high-altitude balloon launches, citizen-science eclipse projects, and even a craft fair. Mat Kaplan of the Planetary Society will act as a guide to the events in the sky, and handheld cameras are encouraged. Tickets for adults cost $25 (£19.64), and children can attend for $5 (£3.93).
Cleveland, Ohio:
The Total Eclipse Festival in Cleveland promises an amazing experience for all. Hosted by the Great Lakes Science Center, NASA’s Glenn Research Center, and The Cleveland Orchestra, this family-friendly festival at North Coast Harbor offers free concerts, performances, speakers, and hands-on science activities. Cleveland is also home to a NASA center, so expect experts and astronauts to be present. Both NASA and the Science Center will provide complimentary viewing glasses.
Houlton, Maine:
Up north in Maine, the Moon will completely cover the Sun for three and a half minutes in certain areas. The Maine Eclipse Festival, running from 5-8 April, offers a range of family-friendly events alongside excellent viewing opportunities. Attendees can take bus trips to explore the Maine Solar System Model and visit the planetarium at the Francis Malcolm Science Center. There are also crafts for kids, an eclipse metaphysical tent for tarot readings, and a craft brew fest for parents.
Kerrville, Texas:
Texas offers some of the best views of totality, and the Schreiner University Eclipse Festival in Kerrville is a fantastic option. As the first university in the US to experience totality, Schreiner University will host a weekend-long festival featuring stargazing at Loftis Observatory, guest speakers, movies, and food. Tickets for the four-day event include a four-night stay, three meals a day, and activities like stargazing and wine tasting.
From the sky:
For a truly unique experience, Delta is offering special flights in the path of totality. Passengers can choose between flights departing from Austin or Dallas-Fort Worth and landing in Detroit on 8 April. Flying at 30,000ft (9,144m) high provides an unparalleled view of the eclipse.
Don’t miss out on this once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to witness the 2024 total solar eclipse. Whether you choose to attend one of the festivals