This eclipse will trace a path of totality from the West Coast to the East Coast of the United States. Locations along this path will witness a complete solar blackout, offering a front-row seat to this celestial extravaganza. 

The total solar eclipse will last no more than five minutes, but a partial solar eclipse will be visible before and after the total eclipse, as the moon makes its way across the sky, making the total lapse of the eclipse roughly two and a half hours, depending on where you are viewing. 

Eclipse viewers who are outside the outer limits of totality will still be able to see a partial eclipse.

What is the science driving this mesmerizing celestial ballet?

A solar eclipse occurs when the moon casts its shadow on the Earth as it passes between the Earth and the Sun—a celestial alignment where the moon, Earth, and Sun align in perfect harmony.

The April 8, 2024, eclipse will be a total solar eclipse which occurs when the moon appears to totally obscure the Sun. It will be the last total solar eclipse visible from the contiguous United States until 2044. 

As we gear up for the solar eclipse, it's crucial to prioritize safety during this awe-inspiring event. With these optical safety tips, you can enjoy the magic of the cosmos without compromising the well-being of your eyes:

Eclipse Glasses:

• Invest in certified solar viewing glasses to directly observe the eclipse.
• Look for the ISO certification label on the glasses to confirm that the glasses are safe for solar viewing. You need to know that they meet the ISO 12312-2 (sometimes written as ISO 12312-2:2015) international safety standard.Check the glasses for any scratches, defects or signs of damage