It’s Eclipse Day – What Makes This Eclipse Different?

 

Unless you've been living under a rock, it's hard NOT to know today is the partial solar eclipse...it's all over the news and social media. The partial eclipse starts as the edge of the moon becomes visible, then a little over an hour later totality begins and lasts 3-4 minutes before the sun begins to appear again. ☀🌙👓

This is not a new kind of eclipse but what makes this eclipse different than others we've seen before?

NASA says that compared to 2017, the 2024 eclipse will have a wider and more populated path. Totality will last longer than in 2017. Back then, the longest period of darkness was 2 minutes and 42 seconds in Illinois - today it will be 4 minutes and 28 seconds in Mexico and 4 minutes and 26 seconds in Texas. This year the sun is in or near a period called solar maximum - that's when the sun's magnetic field can become more active.

During the eclipse, the moon will temporarily block the sun and cast a shadow on the Earth. NASA says the quick change in sunlight effects Earth's atmosphere and they plan to launch 3 sounding rockets during the eclipse to collect data measuring electric, magnetic, temperature, and density changes in Earth's upper atmosphere that could potentially interfere with communication services like air travel, GPS location, and even the power grid.  

Weather in Polk County looks favorable for viewing the partial solar eclipse between about 1:45 pm and 4:15 pm. In our area, we won't see the moon completely block the sun because Florida is not in the path of totality. Central Florida may be in the 50-60% range.

To stay safe, wear only approved eye protection, like special eclipse glasses, to view the partial solar eclipse. Experts warn not to look directly at the sun as it can cause permanent vision damage. That includes trying to view the sun with binoculars, telescopes, or a camera lens without a special solar filter. 

If you happen to miss today's partial eclipse, there won't be another one until 20 years from now in 2044. #Eclipse2024

Here's a great resource to learn more
 
National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (noaa.gov)