The U.S. is just days away from its second total solar eclipse in less than seven years. The first since 2017, the prospect of the moon’s narrow shadow crossing parts of 15 U.S. states has some excited and others confused about the billion-dollar eclipse.
Thankfully, despite some misleading claims, we have the viral “Map of Nope” from genius eclipse cartographer Michael Zeiler to explain everything. He even throws in some emojis for good measure. Why? So everyone can see these incredible sights during totality when the sun’s bright disk is entirely blocked by the moon for a few minutes.
Americans outside the path of totality—as most will be—will use their smartphones to take images of a partial solar eclipse, if skies are clear.
Are you ready for the most sublime natural event of all, a total solar eclipse?
Texas To New York
From Austin, Dallas and Little Rock to Indianapolis, Cleveland and Rochester, over 32 million Americans are about to glimpse a total solar eclipse. The biggest travel event of the year, it could be like having 50 Super Bowls happening at the same time.
The path of totality will be just a few hours’ drive from some of the biggest U.S. cities in the Northeast, including Boston, New York City, Philadelphia and Washington, D.C. Those folk have 15 logical places to go watch it from.
Although predicted for hundreds of years, it’s an event that could be about to be turned on its head. Despite the “ground zero” state being Texas, early weather forecasts indicate that New York and Ohio could be a better choice for a clear view.
Meanwhile, scientists have revealed a new, slightly narrower map of the path of totality, which means regions of some cities on the edge are now set to miss out.
Awe-Inspiring Sight
Much of the talk this week will be about traffic, weather and eclipse glasses, with a likely scramble for free pairs. How can the sight of the moon crossing the sun be worth all this inconvenience, hassle and expense? “It’s the most awe-inspiring sight you will ever see in your life,” said Dr. Tyler Nordgren, an Ithaca, New York-based astronomer, author of Sun Moon Earth and a dedicated eclipse artist. “The stunning visual spectacle evokes a feeling of awe all on its own.”
But you must be in the path of totality. “There is no such thing as a 99% total eclipse—it’s a 99% partial eclipse,” said Dr. Rick Fienberg at the American Astronomical Society’s Solar Eclipse Task Force. “Just like there’s no such thing as being 99% pregnant—it’s all or nothing.”
Grand Tradition
Eclipse-chasing is a grand tradition in the U.S. and it’s set to continue, with so many more coming in the 21st century that America will soon have its own “Gen E”. After all, whatever happens on April 8, there’s another one in just nine years. The team that spent a decade preparing for this one won’t have long to rest.
Let’s hope the eclipse itself does battle with any clouds and, if it doesn’t, the nation can immerse itself in the ambitious plan to broadcast the entire event.
For the latest on all aspects of April 8’s total solar eclipse in North America, check my main feed for new articles each day.
Wishing you clear skies and wide eyes.
