The eagerly anticipated astronomical event of the year is just around the corner: the Total Solar Eclipse of 2024. On April 8, 2024, skywatchers across North America will be treated to a spectacular celestial show as the moon completely covers the sun, plunging parts of the continent into temporary darkness.

Where Will the Eclipse Be Visible?

1. United States: The Great American Eclipse Returns

The United States will once again witness the magic of a total solar eclipse. The path of totality will sweep across the country, starting in Texas and moving northeastward through states like Arkansas, Missouri, Illinois, Indiana, Ohio, New York, and Vermont. Major cities like Dallas, Indianapolis, and Buffalo will experience moments of darkness as the moon’s shadow envelops the sun.

2. Canada: A Northern Glimpse

Our neighbors to the north won’t be left out. Canadians in parts of Ontario and Quebec will witness a partial solar eclipse, with the moon covering a significant portion of the sun. While not a total eclipse, it’s still a celestial show worth watching.

3. Mexico: Mérida’s Moment

As mentioned earlier, Mérida, Yucatán, Mexico, will be a prime viewing spot for the total solar eclipse. The skies over this historic city will darken as the moon takes center stage, casting its shadow on the vibrant streets and ancient ruins. Don’t miss this chance to witness history against the backdrop of Mayan culture.
4. Greenland: A Polar Eclipse

In the icy expanse of Greenland, intrepid skywatchers can witness the eclipse from the world’s largest island. The moon’s shadow will glide across the Arctic landscape, creating a surreal experience for those fortunate enough to be there.

5. Spain: A European Treat
Spain, particularly the region around Galicia, will catch a glimpse of the partial solar eclipse. While not total, it’s a reminder that celestial events unite us across borders. Find a quiet spot along the Spanish coast and witness the moon’s delicate dance with the sun.

6. North Africa: A Saharan Eclipse

Countries like Algeria, Tunisia, and Libya will witness a partial solar eclipse. The Sahara Desert will bear witness to this celestial ballet, where the moon and sun engage in their cosmic tango.

7. Egypt: Pyramids and Eclipses

Imagine standing near the ancient pyramids of Giza as the moon partially veils the sun. Egypt will experience this celestial alignment, connecting millennia-old monuments with the wonders of the universe.

8. Turkey: A Bridge Between Continents

Turkey, straddling Europe and Asia, will see a partial solar eclipse. Istanbul, with its rich history and vibrant culture, will offer a unique perspective on this cosmic event.

9. Russia: A Northern Glimmer

Parts of Russia, including Siberia, will witness the moon’s passage across the sun. The vast Russian wilderness will provide a serene backdrop for this celestial drama.

10. Kazakhstan: A Central Asian Eclipse

Kazakhstan, with its wide-open steppes, will be another location to catch the partial solar eclipse. The vastness of the landscape will amplify the celestial beauty.

Remember, whether you’re in the heart of a bustling city or standing on a remote mountaintop, witnessing a total solar eclipse is a humbling reminder of our place in the cosmos. So mark your calendars, prepare your eclipse glasses, and join fellow skywatchers across the globe as we marvel at this celestial ballet.

Where Will the Eclipse Be Visible in US?

The eclipse will begin over the southern Pacific Ocean. If weather conditions permit, the first place on the North American mainland to experience totality will be the Pacific coast of Mexico, near 11:07 a.m. Pacific Time1. Mexico is poised to have the best weather conditions for observation, and the total phase of the eclipse will last an impressive 4 minutes and 20 seconds in Mazatlán, making it the longest duration anywhere on the continent2.

After Mexico, the eclipse’s path will continue through the United States, entering Texas, Oklahoma, Arkansas, Missouri, Illinois, Kentucky, Indiana, Ohio, Pennsylvania, New York, Vermont, New Hampshire, and Maine. Parts of Tennessee and Michigan will also witness the total solar eclipse. In Canada, the eclipse will pass through southern Ontario, Quebec, New Brunswick, Prince Edward Island, and Cape Breton. The eclipse will exit North America via the Atlantic coast of Newfoundland, Canada, at 5:16 p.m. NDT2.
Key Times for Major U.S. Cities

Here are the key times for major cities in the United States where the eclipse will be visible:

• Dallas, Texas:

• Partial Eclipse Begins: 12:23 p.m. CDT

• Maximum Eclipse: 1:42 p.m. CDT

• Eclipse Ends: 3:02 p.m. CDT

• Idabel, Oklahoma:

• Partial Eclipse Begins: 12:28 p.m. CDT

• Maximum Eclipse: 1:47 p.m. CDT

• Memphis, Tennessee:

• Partial Eclipse Begins: 12:29 p.m. CDT

• Maximum Eclipse: 1:48 p.m. CDT

• Cincinnati, Ohio:

• Partial Eclipse Begins: 1:30 p.m. EDT

• Maximum Eclipse: 2:29 p.m. EDT

• Buffalo, New York:

• Partial Eclipse Begins: 1:30 p.m. EDT
• Maximum Eclipse: 2:35 p.m. EDT

Remember to use proper eye protection when observing the eclipse, and enjoy this rare celestial spectacle! For more detailed information and safety tips, refer to NASA’s official eclipse resources.

References:

• NASA Science: Total Solar Eclipse 2024

• ViveUSA: Where and When to See the Total Solar Eclipse 2024 in the United States, According to NASA

• Expansion: Solar Eclipse 2024 in Mexico