On Monday, a total solar eclipse will occur, thrilling sky-gazers across the contiguous U.S. This event is rare and won’t happen again for another 20 years. An estimated 31.6 million people live in the path of totality, with millions more expected to travel there, prompting governments to launch emergency orders. Dr. Cristina A. Thomas from Northern Arizona University describes the sensation of the moon engulfing the sun, with animals reacting and temperatures dropping.
A solar eclipse happens when the moon passes between the sun and Earth, partially or in totality. Total solar eclipses are rare, with the last one in 2017 in the U.S. and the next one in 2044. The path of this year’s eclipse is wider than before, covering more cities and heavily populated areas. The moon’s shadow will move at high speed, causing the event to last only a few minutes. Even if not in the path of totality, it’s still worth witnessing a partial eclipse.
The eclipse’s path of totality will begin in the South Pacific Ocean, near Mexico, and move northeast across central Texas and up the northeast U.S. The moon’s shadow will sweep across the continental U.S., allowing some to see the entire sun covered by the moon. Those in the path of totality can expect the sky to go dark, revealing the corona of the sun. Animals may exhibit changes in behavior, such as birds stopping singing and insects becoming active.
Specialized solar eclipse glasses are essential for safely viewing the eclipse. Staring at the sun without protection can cause severe eye injury. Using regular sunglasses or cameras without solar filters is also dangerous. Authentic glasses can be purchased at various retailers or obtained for free at some locations. Those in the path of totality will experience the sky going dark, animals reacting, and temperatures dropping.
If unable to obtain glasses, there are indirect viewing methods to watch the eclipse. Creating a pinhole projector using paper or a cardboard box can project an image of the sun onto another surface. This method allows for safe viewing for multiple people. Another option is a box pinhole projector that creates a projected image of the sun inside the box. Crescent-shaped shadows created by sunlight shining through tree leaves can also provide a unique viewing experience. Regardless of the method used, it’s crucial to never look directly at the sun without proper protection.
