Prepare for an awe-inspiring event as the path of a total solar eclipse takes center stage on Monday, April 8. This celestial phenomenon occurs when the Moon positions itself directly between the Sun and Earth, casting its shadow upon our planet.
During a total solar eclipse, the Moon’s shadow consists of two parts. The outer, lighter shadow known as the penumbra offers a partial view of the eclipse. However, to truly witness the spectacle, one must be under the Moon’s darker, inner shadow — the umbra. This is where day turns to night, planets emerge, and the Sun’s corona, its normally invisible outer atmosphere, displays its magnificent glow.
The Moon’s penumbra touches Earth at 11:42 a.m. EDT and withdraws at 4:52 p.m. EDT. The total phase of the eclipse commences at 12:39 p.m. EDT, approximately 620 miles (998 km) south of the Republic of Kiribati in the Pacific Ocean. The umbra maintains contact with Earth’s surface for an astounding 3 hours, 16 minutes, and 45 seconds before vanishing in the North Atlantic Ocean, 340 miles (547 km) southwest of Ireland at 3:55 p.m. EDT.
Spanning a length of 9,190 miles (14,790 km), the 2024 eclipse’s magnitude is 1.0565. This magnitude indicates that the Moon’s diameter is 5.65 percent larger than that of the Sun, signifying a total eclipse. The greatest point of totality occurs at 2:17 p.m. EDT, with a maximum duration of 4 minutes and 28 seconds, a few miles north of Nazas, Mexico.
The experience of witnessing a solar eclipse is unparalleled, leaving a lasting impression on those fortunate enough to see it. Whether you choose to travel or observe from one of the cities within the path of totality, the 2024 solar eclipse promises to be a breathtaking event that connects us to the wonders of the universe.
Do you have questions about eclipses? Join astronomy experts, Dave Eicher and Michael Bakich, as they share their knowledge and insights during a live session on YouTube at 12:30 p.m. Central on Monday, April 1.
FAQs
1. What is a total solar eclipse?
A total solar eclipse occurs when the Moon positions itself directly between the Sun and Earth, casting its shadow upon our planet. This celestial phenomenon offers a unique spectacle where day turns to night and allows for the observation of planets and the Sun’s corona.
2. What are the two parts of the Moon’s shadow during a total solar eclipse?
During a total solar eclipse, the Moon’s shadow consists of two parts: the outer, lighter shadow known as the penumbra, offering a partial view of the eclipse, and the darker, inner shadow known as the umbra, where the true spectacle of the eclipse can be witnessed.
3. What are the timings of the 2024 total solar eclipse?
The Moon’s penumbra touches Earth at 11:42 a.m. EDT and withdraws at 4:52 p.m. EDT. The total phase of the eclipse commences at 12:39 p.m. EDT and lasts for an astounding 3 hours, 16 minutes, and 45 seconds. The eclipse vanishes in the North Atlantic Ocean at 3:55 p.m. EDT.
4. How long is the 2024 total solar eclipse?
The 2024 total solar eclipse has a length of 9,190 miles (14,790 km).
5. What is the magnitude of the 2024 total solar eclipse?
The magnitude of the 2024 eclipse is 1.0565, indicating that the Moon’s diameter is 5.65 percent larger than that of the Sun, resulting in a total eclipse.
6. When does the greatest point of totality occur?
The greatest point of totality during the 2024 solar eclipse occurs at 2:17 p.m. EDT, with a maximum duration of 4 minutes and 28 seconds, a few miles north of Nazas, Mexico.
Definitions
– Umbra: The Moon’s darker, inner shadow during a total solar eclipse where day turns to night.
– Penumbra: The outer, lighter shadow during a total solar eclipse offering a partial view of the eclipse.
– Magnitude: A measure of how much larger the Moon’s diameter is compared to the Sun during a solar eclipse.
Suggested Related Links
– https://www.nasa.gov: NASA’s official website providing comprehensive information on eclipses and astronomical events.
– https://eclipse.gsfc.nasa.gov: NASA’s page dedicated to solar eclipses, including upcoming events and educational resources.
– https://eclipse2024.org: A website offering detailed information and resources about the 2024 solar eclipse, including maps and viewing locations.