Janice R. Andrews
On April 8, a total solar eclipse is expected to captivate skywatchers across North America, marking the beginning of an amazing celestial event. Complete solar eclipses, which are known for transforming day into darkness, provide a unique sight that astounds spectators.
How to Understand a Solar Eclipse:
A solar eclipse occurs when the Moon passes in front of the Earth and the Sun, blocking the Sun’s light completely or partially.
Earth is shadowed by the moon when it completely blocks out the sun, forming a “path of totality.” This relatively limited route traverses the surface, providing observers with the opportunity to see a total solar eclipse, which darkens the sky to the equivalent of dawn or dusk.
Date and Time of Total Solar Eclipse:
April 8 is when the next total solar eclipse is expected to occur. Totality, or complete darkness of the sky, will be observable over a 185-kilometer swath that includes Mexico, the United States, and Canada. Furthermore, eighteen US states will be able to observe this phenomena.
Indian Standard Time (IST) indicates that the eclipse will start at 9:12 p.m. on April 8, reach totality at 10:08 p.m., and end at 2:22 a.m. on April 9. The eclipse will start at about 11:07 am PDT along the Pacific coast of Mexico and end at about 1:30 pm PDT in Maine.
Duration of Total Solar Eclipse:
The total eclipse will only endure for four minutes, although the full event will last for about two and a half hours. But NASA predicts that the maximum show might last as long as 4 minutes and 27 seconds, which is almost twice as long as the Great American Eclipse on August 21, 2017.
How to Safely View an Eclipse:
During partial phases of the eclipse, it is highly recommended to wear protective eyewear, such as licensed eclipse glasses, due to the Sun’s tremendous brightness. Inadequate use of eye protection might lead to blindness or retinal damage.
How Can I Watch a Total Solar Eclipse Online?
NASA will broadcast a live feed of the eclipse in case anyone is unable to see it for themselves. On April 8 at 5:00 p.m. GMT (10:30 p.m. IST), the broadcast will start, and it will run until 8:00 p.m. GMT (1:30 a.m. IST). Expert debates and telescope views from multiple locations along the eclipse path will be shown on NASA’s live feed, providing viewers from all over the world with an enthralling watching experience.
