Finally, North America Witnesses Total Solar Eclipse (Image: NASA)
Flanked by Jupiter and Venus on the right and left of the moon and sun, a rare celestial event unfolded today as a total solar eclipse plunged the Pacific coast of Mexico into complete darkness at 11:07 am (1807 GMT). Dubbed the “path of totality,” this phenomenon started in Mexico and is streaking across the United States, turning day into night. It is set to conclude its journey over Canada’s Atlantic coast, captivating tens of millions of people across the continent.
The total solar eclipse provides a unique opportunity to observe the sun”s corona and the moon”s shadow on Earth”s atmosphere.
Known as the ‘eclipse across America’, this rare total solar eclipse has been broadcast live across various platforms, allowing viewers from anywhere to witness the event. NASA has provided insights, stating that most places along the centerline will experience a totality duration between 3.5 and 4 minutes. The longest duration of totality, spanning 4 minutes and 28 seconds, occurred near Torreón, Mexico.
Trajectory of Total Solar Eclipse 2024 (Image: NASA)
The trajectory of the eclipse commenced in Mexico, will traverse through the United States via Texas, and is journeying through Oklahoma, Arkansas, Missouri, Illinois, Kentucky, Indiana, Ohio, Pennsylvania, New York, Vermont, New Hampshire, and Maine. Additionally, certain areas of Tennessee and Michigan will also witness the total solar eclipse. Upon entering Canada, it will pass through Southern Ontario, Quebec, New Brunswick, Prince Edward Island, and Cape Breton before concluding its journey across continental North America on the Atlantic coast of Newfoundland, Canada, at 5:16 p.m. NDT.
Night fell upon #Cleveland, #Ohio – Flanked by #Jupiter and #Venus, the celestial marvel of #TotalSolarEclipse at the #totality https://t.co/i1reeoucq4
(Video: @nasa ) pic.twitter.com/QFsXIOFeE9
— Timeline. (@timelinelatest) April 8, 2024
Live streaming provided by NASA offers an alternative for those unable to view the eclipse directly. Despite the event being hours away, crowds have already started gathering at viewing sites, eager to witness this rare spectacle. Authorities and organizations are emphasizing the use of special eclipse glasses for safe viewing and cautioning against unsafe practices.
Weather conditions are being closely monitored to ensure optimal viewing conditions for spectators.
