I’m the world's only solar eclipse journalist. I'm the editor of WhenIsTheNextEclipse.com and author of The Complete Guide To The Great North American Eclipse of April 8, 2024 and When Is The Next Eclipse? A traveler’s guide to total solar eclipses 2024-2034.
April 8’s total solar eclipse will be a cosmic event like no other, but there are many misconceptions about this natural phenomenon. Misunderstand this eclipse, and you risk missing or marring a once-in-a-lifetime experience.
So, let’s debunk nine common myths about total solar eclipses to help you enjoy this awe-inspiring event safely and fully.No, they are not. If you’re from North America and you did not live or travel into the path of totality on August 21, 2017, what you have seen is a partial solar eclipse. Did it get dark at any point, and everyone around you get incredibly excited all at once? If not, then you have not seen a total solar eclipse.There is no such thing as 99% totality.
Yes, the duration of totality is maximized on what is properly called the centerline of the path of totality. It’s also true that totality duration tapers off to a single second on the edges of the 115-mile wide path of totality. But the shape of the moon’s shadow means you don’t need to be on the centerline. For example, if totality lasts 4 minutes 26 seconds on the centerline, then it will last about 4 minutes halfway between the edge and the centerline.
For basic information about how, when and where to experience North America’s total solar eclipse and why you must try to get yourself to the path of totality on April 8,
United Kingdom Latest News, United Kingdom Headlines
Similar News:You can also read news stories similar to this one that we have collected from other news sources.
Solar eclipse 2024: Why wearing red or green could enhance your solar eclipse experienceChoosing the right colors to wear won’t just be about looking good – there’s a science behind the reason why experts say you should think about wearing red or green.
Read more »
NASA Eclipse Soundscapes Project will record how 2024's total solar eclipse impacts natureRobert Lea is a science journalist in the U.K. whose articles have been published in Physics World, New Scientist, Astronomy Magazine, All About Space, Newsweek and ZME Science. He also writes about science communication for Elsevier and the European Journal of Physics. Rob holds a bachelor of science degree in physics and astronomy from the U.K.
Read more »
Illinois Eclipse 2024: Tips for viewing the last total solar eclipse for 20 yearsMother Nature is putting together quite a show for all to see on April 8. It’s going to be the last total solar eclipse that we will see for the next 20 years and Illinois has some of the best seats to offer.
Read more »