The upcoming total solar eclipse on April 8, 2024, will be the last over North America until 2044, making it a rare event that should not be missed. Astronauts aboard the International Space Station will have multiple opportunities to view the eclipse as it tracks across the Earth’s surface. Even those on Earth can assist NASA by participating in the Eclipse Soundscapes Project, a Citizen Science project studying how eclipses impact life on Earth.
During a total solar eclipse, the moon passes between the Earth and the sun, blocking the sun and turning day into darkness for a short period. Depending on the angle at which you view the eclipse, you may witness the sun completely shrouded by the moon, known as totality. The 2024 eclipse will cross over the Mexican Pacific coast and traverse the US in a northeasterly direction from Texas to Maine and into easternmost Canada. Delta Airlines is offering eclipse-viewing flights, providing a unique airborne opportunity to witness the event.
For those unable to travel to see the eclipse in person, NASA will be hosting a 3-hour live stream of the event, featuring commentary, views from locations in the path of totality, and watch parties across the nation. It is important to prioritize eye safety during the eclipse and protect your eyes with special viewing glasses that comply with safety standards. Free eclipse viewing glasses are being distributed at Warby Parker eyeglasses stores, and indirect methods like pinhole projectors can also be used to safely view the eclipse.
The 2024 eclipse is expected to cover more land and last longer than the 2017 total solar eclipse, with maximum totality lasting nearly four-and-a-half minutes. Differences between the two events include the width of the path of totality, which is wider for the upcoming eclipse, and the duration of total coverage by the moon. More information on expert eye protection, viewing tips, and where to get free solar eclipse glasses is available to help viewers prepare for the Great American Eclipse.
