The most significant astronomical event of the year, the total solar eclipse or Surya Grahan, is scheduled to occur on April 8, 2024. This rare celestial phenomenon will be visible across Canada, the United States, and Mexico, tracing its path over North America. Despite the anticipation among stargazers, it’s important to note that this particular eclipse will not be observable in India. An eclipse occurs when a celestial body, such as a planet or moon, obstructs the Sun’s light. On Earth, there are two types of eclipses: solar and lunar.
What is solar eclipse or Surya Grahan?
A solar eclipse transpires when the Moon obstructs the Sun’s light, casting its shadow on Earth and causing darkness during the day. This total eclipse occurs approximately every year and a half at different locations on Earth, while a partial eclipse, where the Moon doesn’t completely cover the Sun, happens at least twice a year somewhere on Earth.
When and where to watch solar eclipse or Surya Grahan 2024
The path of the upcoming eclipse traverses Mexico, entering the United States through Texas and passing through several states before reaching Canada. The total solar eclipse will begin over the South Pacific Ocean, with Mexico’s Pacific coast being the first location in continental North America to experience totality around 11:07 a.m. PDT, weather permitting.
The path of the 2024 total solar eclipse stretches in a narrow band across the US from Texas to Maine, visible throughout all 48 contiguous U.S. states. During a total solar eclipse, the Moon passes between the Sun and Earth, completely obscuring the Sun’s face. People within the path of totality will witness the sky darkening, resembling dawn or dusk.