Solar eclipse fast facts

1

Proving Einstein’s theory: During a solar eclipse in 1919, Arthur Eddington was able to prove Albert Einstein’s theory by observing the position of the stars in relation to the sun.

— Angela Speck, professor of astrophysics at the University of Texas at San Antonio

2

The temperature will drop: The shift will vary based on location, but it will drop about 10 degrees on average.

— Dan Schneiderman, eclipse partnerships coordinator at the Rochester Museum and Science Center in New York

3

Total eclipses are rare – but not that rare: A total eclipse occurs about once every 18 months. However, since Earth is 70% water, most occur over open seas with few people observing them.

— Don Riefler, science programs manager at the Children’s Museum of Indianapolis

4

Once in lifetime: The opportunity to observe an eclipse from the same location is incredibly rare. A total solar eclipse takes about 375 years to happen again in the same location.

— Sommer Murphy, an early-learner specialist at the Museum of Discovery in Little Rock, Arkansas

5

Wildlife will respond: As the eclipse progresses and the sky darkens, birds will begin their early evening routine of flocking/swarming and chirping loudly. As we plunge into the darkness of totality, birds will land and go quiet.

— Speck

6

You'll see Baily’s Beads: In the seconds before totality, it will seem like light is dancing on the sides of the moon. This phenomenon, known as Baily’s Beads, was named after 19th century English astronomer Francis Baily. It occurs when the moon’s craters and valleys break up the light.

— Schneiderman

7

Eclipse meanings: Different cultures have their interpretations of eclipses. In ancient China, dragons were said to be eating the sun. In Navajo culture, eclipses are seen as a time for rebirth and quiet reflection.

— LeKeisha Harding, director of equitable evaluation and impact, at Thinkery Austin in Texas

8

Stars and planets will be visible:

If you’re in an area with little light pollution, you’ll be able to see some of the brightest stars and even a few planets – notably Jupiter and Venus.

— Schneiderman

9

Changes: The moon is moving about an inch away from Earth each year. The distances between Earth and the moon and Earth and the sun make their sizes appear almost the same, allowing for total eclipses. Eventually, Earth will only get annular eclipses.

— Riefler

10

Eclipse chasers exist: Known as umbraphiles, which means shadow lovers, they plan world travels around pursuing eclipses.

— Harding