April 2024 is set to be an exciting time for skywatchers, as a total solar eclipse will grace the skies. This celestial event will take place on Monday, April 8, and will traverse North America, passing over Mexico, the United States, and Canada. The eclipse will commence over the South Pacific Ocean, with the first location in continental North America to experience totality being Mexico’s Pacific coast at approximately 11:07 a.m. PDT.
What makes this upcoming total solar eclipse even more intriguing is its timing. According to solar physicist Scott McIntosh, the sun will be particularly active during this period, resembling a “very irritated little hedgehog.” Scientists explain that the sun is approaching the maximum activity of its cycle this year, which means it will be emitting more solar flares and eruptions from its surface. This heightened activity has the potential to make the 2024 total solar eclipse a much more dynamic spectacle.
The 2024 eclipse is expected to evoke memories of the 2017 eclipse, during which an estimated 88% of U.S. adults witnessed the moon passing in front of the sun either directly or through online platforms. However, this year’s version promises to be even more captivating due to differences in its path, timing, and scientific research, as noted by NASA.
During the upcoming total solar eclipse, viewers will have the opportunity to witness the moon completely blocking the sun, revealing the star’s outer atmosphere known as the corona. What sets this eclipse apart from its predecessor is the wider path of totality. As the moon orbits Earth, its distance from our planet varies. In 2017, the moon was slightly farther away from Earth compared to its position during the upcoming eclipse. Consequently, the path of the 2017 eclipse was narrower, ranging from about 62 to 71 miles wide. In contrast, the path over North America for the April eclipse will span between 108 and 122 miles, covering more ground at any given moment.
Moreover, the 2024 eclipse path will pass over a greater number of cities and densely populated areas. Approximately 31.6 million people reside within the path of totality this year, a significant increase from the 12 million in 2017. Additionally, an additional 150 million individuals live within 200 miles of the path of totality, making it accessible to a vast number of people.
To visualize the eclipse’s trajectory, AccuWeather has provided a map showing the moon’s shadow’s path during the total solar eclipse on April 8, 2024. The dark gray line on the map indicates the route of the eclipse, guiding enthusiasts to prime viewing locations.
As the date approaches, skywatchers and astronomy enthusiasts eagerly anticipate the rare and captivating event that is the total solar eclipse. With its wider path, increased activity of the sun, and accessibility to more people, the April 2024 eclipse promises to be an unforgettable experience for all who witness it. So mark your calendars and prepare to be awed by the wonders of the universe.