A Total Solar Eclipse Will Cross North America In April
This 2024 eclipse will cover more ground than the 2017 eclipse due to the distance between the Moon and Earth.
CHARLOTTE, NORTH CAROLINA (WCCB) — The total solar eclipse is quickly approaching! On April 8, a total solar eclipse will cross North America, passing over Mexico, the United States, and Canada.
A total solar eclipse occurs when the Moon passes between the Sun and Earth. The path of totality will cross 13 states from Texas to Maine. Here in the Carolinas, we will see a 70% – 85% partial eclipse. The eclipse will begin at 1:54 PM local time and will end at 4:26 PM.
This 2024 eclipse will cover more ground than the 2017 eclipse due to the distance between the Moon and Earth. In 2017, the Moon was a bit farther away from Earth resulting in a path width of 62 – 71 miles. This year, the path will range from 108 – 122 miles wide according to NASA.
The next time Charlotte will be in totality May 11, 2078.
Unlike a lunar eclipse, you do need specialized eye protection for solar viewing. Tap here for a list of safe solar viewers per NASA.
If you do not have that special eye protection, there are other safe ways to look at the eclipse indirectly:
First a spaghetti colander! The holes in the colander will act as little cameras. You’ll be able to see dozens of little eclipses.
You could also use a cereal box. Click here for NASA’s step by step instructions!
