In the cosmic theater of our solar system, few phenomena command as much awe and wonder as a total solar eclipse. On April 8, 2024, nature will unveil one of its most breathtaking spectacles as the Moon’s shadow dances across Earth’s surface, casting a brief veil of darkness upon those fortunate enough to witness it. This upcoming celestial event promises to captivate hearts and minds, reminding us of the profound beauty and mystery of the universe.
What is a Solar Eclipse?
A solar eclipse occurs when the Moon passes between the Earth and the Sun, obscuring all or part of the Sun’s light from our vantage point on Earth. The alignment of these three celestial bodies is a rare event.
The April 8, 2024 Solar Eclipse
The solar eclipse slated for April 8, 2024, holds particular significance due to its path of totality, the region on Earth from which the Sun will appear completely obscured by the Moon. This eclipse’s path will traverse North America, offering millions of people the opportunity to witness this awe-inspiring event firsthand.
Path of Totality
The path of totality for the April 8, 2024 eclipse, in the United States, will stretch from Maine to Texas. The 100 mile wide path of totality spans regions including Mexico, the central and eastern United States, and parts of eastern Canada. Major cities such as Dallas, Indianapolis, Cleveland, and Buffalo will find themselves in the path of totality, providing accessible viewing opportunities for a large number of the population.
Brilliant Source Energy is headquartered in Berea, Ohio, just Southwest of Cleveland. Fortunately for us, we are directly in the path of totality.
How Rare is This?
The last total solar eclipse in Ohio was 1806. The next total solar eclipse in Ohio will be in 2099.
Duration and Timing
Viewing from our offices in Berea, Ohio, the partial eclipse will start at about 1:58pm. Totality will last about 3 minutes and 48 seconds at about 3:13pm. The eclipse will end about 4:28pm.
Will I be able to see the Eclipse from my Home or Work?
The sun, during the total eclipse, will be about 48 degrees high in the Southwestern sky. Check your surroundings for all trees and buildings near you. If the site lines are clear, you should be able to view the eclipse from your home or workplace.
Fingers crossed for no clouds!
Protect Your Eyes
While witnessing a solar eclipse is a remarkable experience, it’s crucial to prioritize safety. Staring directly at the Sun, even during an eclipse, can cause permanent eye damage. Therefore, it’s imperative to use proper eye protection, such as eclipse glasses or solar filters, to safeguard your vision. Additionally, viewers should avoid looking at the Sun through unfiltered cameras, telescopes, or binoculars, as these devices can magnify sunlight and cause harm.
The only time that you can look at the sun without a solar viewer is during a total eclipse. When the moon completely covers the sun’s brightness and it suddenly gets dark, you can remove your eclipse glasses to watch this unique experience. Then, as soon as the bright sun begins to reappear very slightly, immediately use your eclipse glasses again to watch the remaining partial phase of the eclipse.
Protect Your Phone
During the partial eclipse, do not take photos or videos from your device without protecting the camera. The direct sunlight could damage the hardware in your phone’s camera. Purchase an eclipse filter to safely take pictures or videos.
Will Animals Act Weird During the Eclipse?
Animals won’t know that it is a solar eclipse of course, but they will know the sky is getting darker.
Most animals respond to the light dimming in a way that signals to them it is time to rest or go to sleep. Nocturnal animals will think it is time to wake up and be active. Because the totality is about 4 minutes long, animals will adjust and go back to their regular routine.
You may hear some amphibians, spring peepers, tree frogs and wood frogs becoming more active. Animals that act differently at dusk, such as birds, will likely go about their evening routines during the eclipse. Some birds, like seagulls, may head back over land to roost in response to the darkness. Some birds tend to sing more at dusk, like cardinals and robins, so they might start to become more vocal during totality. Some bats might emerge from their roosts and start to fly around to catch insects.
When totality ends, some animals might respond quicker to the light coming back and some may pause a little to figure it out. But most animals will respond again to daylight, and it shouldn’t affect them at all.
With all of this activity, your environment might sound a little bit different in the afternoon.
The Eclipse Soundscapes Project is expanding on a similar study back in 1932 that reviewed about 500 observations, when an eclipse at the time passed over the U.S. and Canada, according to NASA.
What are your Plans?
Solar eclipses offer unique opportunities for community engagement and scientific exploration. Schools, museums, and astronomical societies often organize educational events and viewing parties to share the wonders of the cosmos with the public. These gatherings not only foster a sense of wonder and curiosity but also promote scientific literacy and appreciation for the natural world.
Where will you be during the Solar Eclipse? Contact Us on Facebook, Twitter, LinkedIn and let us know.
As the date of April 8, 2024, draws near, anticipation for the upcoming solar eclipse continues to build among astronomers and enthusiasts alike. This celestial event promises to be a once-in-a-lifetime experience for many, offering a fleeting glimpse into the majesty of the universe. Whether you find yourself in the path of totality or observing from afar, take a moment to appreciate the beauty and wonder of the cosmos as the Moon and Sun perform their timeless dance across the sky.
