Total Solar Eclipse 2024:
Amidst the Total Solar Eclipse of 2024, a celestial spectacle dubbed the ‘planetary parade’ is poised to enthrall sky watchers worldwide. Here’s everything you need to know.
Calling all astronomy enthusiasts! Brace yourselves for the grandest astronomical event of the year: the Total Solar Eclipse scheduled to grace the night sky on April 8. This rare phenomenon will cast a shadow over specific regions.
Treating observers within its path to an extraordinary spectacle of daytime darkness, accompanied by the mesmerizing sight of the sun’s corona. Fans of the cosmos can catch the eclipse live, spanning several hours across various locations globally.
The Total Solar Eclipse of 2024 will kick off at 9:12 pm (IST) on April 8 and conclude at 2:22 am on April 9. Moreover, fortunate viewers will also be treated to a breathtaking ‘planetary parade’, akin to a celestial procession.
What exactly is the planetary parade? During the solar eclipse, an exceptional celestial event awaits as seven planets.—Uranus, Jupiter, Mercury, Venus, Neptune, Saturn, and Mars.—Align near the sun, offering a rare spectacle. Where all major planets of the solar system are visible simultaneously.
Adding to this remarkable sight, Comet 12P/Pons-Brooks will grace the sky, further enhancing the cosmic display. Such gatherings of planets are affectionately referred to as planetary parades. Making this event an extraordinary celestial extravaganza for astronomers and sky watchers alike.
Total Solar Eclipse 2024: Understanding the ‘Planetary Parade’ and How to Experience It – Your Complete Guide
Who can witness it? To behold the extraordinary celestial phenomena accompanying the impending solar eclipse. Observers must position themselves within the narrow path of totality, spanning approximately 115 miles wide.
This path stretches across northern Mexico, parts of 15 US states, and five Canadian provinces. Within this specific corridor, observers will have the unique opportunity to experience totality, characterized by daytime darkness. The captivating corona of the sun, and the enchanting presence of multiple planets, potentially including a comet.
Those outside this path will miss out on this incredible celestial show; even if they catch a 99% partial eclipse. They’ll only witness a “smiley face”-shaped partial blackout of the sun through eclipse glasses.
How can one watch it safely? During the brief total phase of a total solar eclipse, when the moon completely obscures the brilliant face of the sun. It’s unsafe to gaze directly at the sun without proper eye protection.
Viewing any portion of the bright sun through a telescope, binoculars, or camera lens without a specific solar filter affixed to the front of the optics could lead to severe eye injury. Therefore, it’s imperative to have the necessary safety precautions in place.