North America is gearing up for another celestial phenomenon.
This Monday, a total solar eclipse will be visible along Mexico’s Pacific coast, crossing into Texas and 14 other U.S. states before continuing over Canada.
This eclipse will last almost twice as long as the one in 2017, with a wider audience. The moon will block the sun for up to 4 minutes and 28 seconds, passing over major cities like Dallas, Indianapolis, and Cleveland. An estimated 44 million people live within the path of totality, with millions more within a 200-mile radius, making it the largest eclipse crowd in North America.
Remember to wear special glasses to safely view the eclipse.
Here are some key points about Monday’s total solar eclipse:
What is a total solar eclipse?
During a total solar eclipse, the moon aligns perfectly between the Earth and the sun, blocking out sunlight. This eclipse will last longer than usual due to the moon’s close proximity to Earth. Totality will be the longest over Mexico at 4 minutes and 28 seconds.
What is the path of the eclipse?
The moon’s shadow will travel diagonally from southwest to northeast across North America, passing through 15 U.S. states from Texas to Maine.
A comet during the eclipse?
During totality, observers may be able to see a comet along with four planets, including Jupiter, Venus, Saturn, and Mars.
Last total solar eclipse in the US?
The last total solar eclipse in the U.S. was in 2017, with a “ring of fire” eclipse occurring in 2023. The next total solar eclipse in North America will be in 2033, limited to Alaska.
When is the next one?
After Monday’s eclipse, the next total solar eclipse in North America will be in 2033, followed by one in 2044 in Western Canada, Montana, and North Dakota, and another in 2045 spanning the U.S. coast to coast.
By Marcia Dunn
