April 8 solar eclipse: Here’s what you need to know

On Sunday, April 8, a total solar eclipse will cross the United States from Oregon to South Carolina. But what exactly is a total solar eclipse? What can we expect to see? And how can you safely watch an eclipse?

A solar eclipse occurs when the moon passes between the earth and the sun, blocking all or part of the sun’s light. A solar eclipse is only possible during a new moon, when the moon is between the earth and the sun. If the moon is close enough to the Earth, it can completely block the sun’s light, causing a total solar eclipse.

The path of totality, where the moon will completely block the sun, will begin in Oregon and travel across the United States to South Carolina. The eclipse will be visible to some degree across all of North America, but totality will only be visible along the path of totality.

If you’re in the path of totality, you can expect to see the following:

• A total solar eclipse begins with a partial eclipse. As the moon begins to move in front of the sun, you will see a small piece of the sun disappear. As the eclipse progresses, more and more of the sun will be blocked until it is completely gone.
• Once the sun is completely blocked, you will see the corona. The corona is the outermost layer of the sun’s atmosphere, and it is normally too faint to be seen. During a total solar eclipse, the corona can be seen as a bright ring around the moon.
• The total eclipse will only last for a few minutes. Once the moon begins to move away from the sun, you will see the corona begin to disappear. As the eclipse progresses, more and more of the sun will become visible until it is completely gone.

If you’re planning to watch the eclipse, it’s important to take safety precautions. Never look directly at the sun without proper eye protection. You can use eclipse glasses or solar filters to protect your eyes.

The April 8 solar eclipse is a rare and amazing event. If you’re in the path of totality, be sure to take advantage of this opportunity to see one of nature’s most incredible sights.