A solar eclipse occurs when the moon passes between the sun and the Earth. The moon is about 400 times smaller than the sun, but it’s also 400 times closer to the Earth. On rare occasions, the moon’s path glides perfectly in front of the sun, causing us to experience a solar eclipse.
Depending on the type of solar eclipse, the view can be quite different. When the moon blocks only part of the sun’s light, it’s called a partial eclipse. When this happens, the moon appears smaller than the sun and blocks the sun’s light in the center, but leaves an outer ring shining in the sky.
Other times, the sun’s light is completely blocked. As the Earth rotates and the moon covers the sun, a shadow is cast onto parts of the Earth. If you’re lucky enough to be within the shadow’s trail during a solar eclipse, you’ll experience complete darkness for a few minutes. It will look like nighttime during the day. This is called a total eclipse.
How Often Do Solar Eclipses Occur?
Since the sun and moon must align perfectly for a total or partial eclipse, they are highly unusual. On average, partial eclipses occur about two times per year. Total eclipses, however, can take decades to occur again. Certain locations experienced a total eclipse in August 2017, but many experts consider the seven-year gap unusual; before 2017, the United States had not experienced a total solar eclipse since 1979. The upcoming 2024 total solar eclipse is a massive occurrence that you do not want to miss.
Are Eclipses Dangerous To Look At?
Yes, solar eclipses are incredibly dangerous to look at if you do not follow precautions. The intensity of the sun can cause severe and irreversible eye damage, called solar retinopathy. Despite part of the sun’s light being covered during an eclipse, solar radiation is still strong enough to permanently damage your retinas.
If you plan on viewing the 2024 solar eclipse (or any eclipse) in person, it is imperative to wear eclipse glasses. Make sure they are approved by the American Astronomical Society. To prevent temporary or permanent retina damage (including blindness), do not attempt to:
- Stare directly at the sun without protective eyewear.
- Substitute regular sunglasses for eclipse glasses. Eclipse glasses are thousands of shades darker to protect you from the sun’s powerful rays.
- Use a standard camera, telescope, binoculars, or other optical device with or without eclipse glasses. Solar rays can burn right through the filter, causing eye damage. You should only view the eclipse through any of these if your device has a solar filter.
You can buy eclipse glasses from many retailers, including Amazon (and they are fairly inexpensive, typically no more than $5-$8). Certain towns and universities even distribute them for free, so ask around! You don’t want to miss this rare, astronomical event.
When to Watch the 2024 Solar Eclipse
On Monday, April 8th, 2024, a total solar eclipse will pass over the United States, Canada, and Mexico. Certain areas of New England – such as Massachusetts, Rhode Island, and Connecticut – are only going to experience a partial eclipse, but there’s still plenty to see. According to expert predictions, the eclipse is projected to pass over the Boston area around 2:15pm EDT. If you plan on visiting a total eclipse area, find a more specific estimate using NASA’s interactive map.
Where to Watch the 2024 Solar Eclipse
Massachusetts, Connecticut, and Rhode Island are only expected to experience a partial eclipse. If you’re located in one of these areas, don’t worry – you’re still going to be able to see just fine! For the best results in New England, experts recommend visiting Burlington, Vermont, Lancaster, New Hampshire, and Caribou, Maine.
Many communities have organized gatherings to watch the eclipse. Total eclipse areas even have large events planned. If you’re unable to watch the eclipse in person, check out this guide to view live streams.