Millions of people across North America are excitedly anticipating Monday’s total solar eclipse, a rare celestial event where the moon blocks out the sun. However, there’s a chance that clouds could spoil the view for some spectators.
The best weather conditions for viewing the eclipse are expected in places like Vermont, Maine, New Brunswick, and Newfoundland. Even if clouds obstruct the view in some areas, almost everyone in North America should still be able to see at least a partial eclipse, weather permitting.
Forecasters are uncertain about the cloud cover, adding to the suspense of the event. Rain or shine, people are eager to share the experience with others. For many, it’s a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to witness the moon completely covering the sun, creating a brief period of twilight during the day.
During the eclipse, birds and animals may fall silent, and planets, stars, and possibly even a comet could become visible. This eclipse will last for up to 4 minutes and 28 seconds, longer than the one that occurred seven years ago.
The eclipse’s path stretches from the Pacific Ocean to Newfoundland, passing through Mexico, the United States, and Canada. It will only take about 1 hour and 40 minutes for the moon’s shadow to travel over 4,000 miles (6,500 kilometers) across the continent.
Proper eye protection, such as eclipse glasses or filters, is necessary to safely observe the sun during the eclipse. Many major cities, including Dallas, Indianapolis, Cleveland, Buffalo, and Montreal, are within the path of totality, attracting millions of spectators and eclipse chasers.
NASA, universities, and amateur astronomers are conducting research and experiments during the eclipse, while the astronauts aboard the International Space Station will also be observing the event from space.
