Darkness During the Day
There’s a big event happening up in the sky in a few days. Are you ready for the 2024 solar eclipse? The Mini Page explores the science of the eclipse and safe ways to observe it.
What is an eclipse?
An eclipse happens when one body in space passes directly between two others. A solar eclipse happens when the moon passes between the Earth and the sun, blocking the sun’s light.
The solar eclipse expected on April 8 will cover a large path from Texas to Maine. In its direct path, experts say, the eclipse will make it appear as dark as dusk outside.
A partial eclipse will be visible in all U.S. states except Alaska.
The last time a total solar eclipse passed over the continental United States was in 2017.
How does it happen?
There are several stages of a total eclipse. In the first stage, the moon is partially blocking the sun. This stage can last more than an hour.
As the eclipse becomes total, the last bits of sunlight streaming through valleys on the moon cause a bright flash, known as the diamond ring effect.
The shadow causing the partial eclipse is called the penumbra (peh-NUM-bruh). The shadow of the total eclipse is the umbra (UMbruh).
When the diamond ring disappears and the moon completely covers the sun, it’s safe to look at the eclipse. But this will only last for a few seconds. When you begin to see a crescent on the other side of the moon, it’s time to protect your eyes again.
Safety first!
Looking directly at the sun can cause serious damage to your eyes!
The only way to look directly at the eclipse is through special “eclipse glasses.” Even very dark sunglasses are not safe to watch through. Don’t look through a camera, telescope or binoculars, even with eclipse glasses.
You can also use a pinhole projector to watch the eclipse safely. Find directions and more information under Resources.