Countdown to the 2024 Solar Eclipse: Where to Look and When
Southern Illinois: Path to Totality
As the highly anticipated 2024 solar eclipse draws near, individuals are eagerly seeking prime locations and optimal viewing times to witness this rare celestial spectacle. While some fortunate communities in southern Illinois fall within the path of totality, where the sun will be completely obscured by the moon for several minutes, others, like Chicago and its surrounding suburbs, will see a partial eclipse with an estimated 94% eclipse prevalence.
Understanding a Total Solar Eclipse
During a total solar eclipse, the new moon aligns itself with the sun, temporarily and progressively blocking the sunlight from our view. As the phenomenon approaches, anticipation builds at the potential for captivating sights. NASA scientists confirm that viewers within the projected path will experience the eclipse at its fullest intensity.
Catching the Eclipse in Illinois
Chicago and Surrounding Areas
For viewers in Chicago, the eclipse will commence at approximately 12:51 p.m. and reach its maximum at 2:07 p.m. Expect the partial eclipse to end at around 3:22 p.m. Access to proper eye protection, such as specialized eclipse glasses, will ensure safer viewing conditions.
Other Cities and Towns
Beyond Chicago, the exact timing of the eclipse will differ. Below, we’ve provided an eclipse timeline for several locations in Illinois, including Aurora, DeKalb, Evanston, Fox Lake, Lombard, Orland Park, Plainfield, Schaumburg, and Wheaton. Find the partial eclipse beginning, maximum eclipse, and partial eclipse end times for your area here.
Experiencing the Path of Totality
For those seeking to witness the complete eclipse, diving into the path of totality offers a breathtaking journey. Cities such as Carbondale, Makanda, Alto Pass, Fairfield, Olney, Golconda, Effingham, Mt. Vernon, and Marion fall into the path of totality as the moon casts its shadow over these regions. The magnificent totality will commence around 1:59 p.m. and end approximately 2:03 p.m. in Carbondale.
