Total solar eclipse 2024: All you need to know

During a total solar eclipse, the moon fully blocks the sun along a narrow path on Earth's surface, known as the "path of totality." This causes a temporary darkness resembling dusk or dawn. Nocturnal animals may become active. Within this path, observers can view the sun's corona, while outside, a partial eclipse is visible.

Millions of people witnessed the total solar eclipse on August 21, 2017, as it traversed the contiguous United States. The upcoming April 8 eclipse will have a wider path of totality compared to 2017 due to the moon's slightly greater distance from Earth. Nasa states the 2017 path was approximately 62-71 miles (100-114 km) wide, while this year's will range from about 108-122 miles (174-196 km), covering more ground. Additionally, the 2024 eclipse path is projected to pass over more densely populated areas than its predecessor.

Wegmans, a popular grocery chain, stands out by announcing closures at its New York and Pennsylvania locations between 3 pm and 3:30 pm, ensuring its employees can witness the event. In Pennsylvania, this includes the Erie Peach St. and Erie West stores. Additionally, numerous schools, including East Pennsboro Area School District and Lower Dauphin, are closing early. Susquehanna Township School District even offers the choice to keep children home all day, prioritizing safety and family enjoyment during this unique experience.

An annular solar eclipse, such as the one observed on October 14, 2023, differs from other types. It occurs when the moon is at or near its farthest point from Earth and doesn't fully cover the sun's face, creating a "ring of fire" effect. This event was witnessed by people along a path from the US Pacific Northwest through Mexico, Central America, Colombia, and Brazil.

The total solar eclipse of April 8, 2024, promises a spectacular event for viewers along its path of totality. Beginning in Mexico, locations like Mazatlán, Durango, and Torreón will witness the moon completely covering the sun. Torreón, in Coahuila, offers one of the longest durations of totality, lasting about 4 minutes and 28 seconds. The eclipse then traverses parts of the United States and into Canada, offering prime viewing opportunities across North America.

Nasa predicts several upcoming eclipses worldwide. On October 2, 2024, an annular solar eclipse will be visible in South America, with a partial view in Antarctica, the Pacific, and North America. Partial solar eclipses follow on March 29 and September 21, 2025, and an annular eclipse on February 17, 2026, before a total solar eclipse on August 12, 2026.

Experts strongly caution against looking directly at the sun during an eclipse without proper eye protection, as it can cause severe eye injury. Solar viewing glasses or handheld solar viewers with special filters are recommended. During a total solar eclipse, it's only safe to remove eye protection when the sun's surface is completely obscured by the moon. Unlike solar eclipses, lunar eclipses occur when Earth's shadow falls on the moon, visible from a broader area on Earth.