In 2017, viewers across the United States experienced a total solar eclipse, a rare event that happens when the moon passes between Earth and the sun, blocking the sun from view. The last total solar eclipse to cross North America occurred in 1979, and the next ones are not expected until 2044 and 2045. These events are considered some of the most spectacular phenomena, with the eclipse appearing like a black hole in the sky. Millions of people witnessed the partial solar eclipse in 2017, but only those within the path of totality experienced the darkness of the total eclipse.
Eclipses occur about twice a year, but their timings are irregular. Scientists can predict exactly when and where eclipses will happen, and there will be a total of eight total solar eclipses visible from North America in the 21st century. The upcoming total solar eclipse in 2044 will mainly be observed in Canada, with the path of totality touching only three states in the U.S. The subsequent total eclipse in 2045 will cross a significant portion of the continental U.S., darkening skies in various states as it moves from coast to coast.
After 2045, the next total solar eclipses in North America are predicted to occur in 2078 and 2099. The eclipse in 2078 will pass over the southern United States, including cities like Atlanta, New Orleans, Charlotte, and Virginia Beach. In 2099, a total solar eclipse will cross a wide swath of the United States, including cities like Minneapolis, Milwaukee, Chicago, Columbus, and Fargo. These natural phenomena are compared to a Swiss clock, as scientists can accurately predict when and where they will appear, providing opportunities for people to witness these awe-inspiring events in the sky.
Eclipse-watchers describe witnessing a total solar eclipse as one of the most extraordinary experiences in their lifetime. The 2017 eclipse spanned across 15 states in the U.S. and into Canada, creating a path of totality where the moon completely blocked the sun. This rare occurrence drew millions of spectators from coast to coast, despite weather conditions impacting visibility in some regions. Future total solar eclipses in North America will continue to captivate audiences, with opportunities to witness the darkening of the sky and the awe-inspiring beauty of the celestial alignment of the sun, moon, and Earth.
