Alexander Lewis 
Apr 05, 2024
Get ready for an awe-inspiring celestial show: a total solar eclipse is on its way. This extraordinary event is set to occur on Monday, April 8, when the moon will align precisely between the Earth and the sun. The alignment will cast a shadow over a wide swath of North America, stretching from Maine to Texas in the US, and extending into parts of Canada and Mexico.
Residents along the 115-mile-wide path of totality are in for a remarkable experience. They can also expect to share this moment with millions of others who will be flocking to these regions to witness this rare celestial occurrence.
High above, in the vastness of space, American astronauts Jeanette Epps and Tracy Dyson are gearing up to observe this event from an extraordinary perspective aboard the International Space Station (ISS). Orbiting approximately 250 miles above Earth, they'll have the unique opportunity to view the moon's shadow as it traverses across North America, rather than witnessing the eclipse directly.
NASA has indicated that the ISS crew will have three chances to see the shadow (both penumbra and umbra) as the moon’s path intersects the Earth. One particularly noteworthy moment is predicted when the ISS, during near-total eclipse conditions, passes over Maine and New Brunswick at around 3:30pm ET.
In a recent video, astronaut Epps expressed her excitement about the eclipse, highlighting its significance for scientific research and understanding the intricate relationship between the sun, moon, and Earth.
The eclipse’s longest duration of totality, lasting 4 minutes and 28 seconds, is expected near Torreón, Mexico. Most observers within the US path of totality will experience the peak eclipse for approximately 3.5 to 4 minutes.
For those planning to witness this spectacular event, remember that safety comes first. It’s essential to wear special eclipse glasses to protect your eyes. And for those who can’t be within the path of totality, there are options to view the eclipse online.
Stay tuned for more information on how to experience Monday’s solar eclipse, whether you’re watching it firsthand or virtually.
