Preparing for the 2024 Total Solar Eclipse: Lessons from the 2017 Eclipse

🌑Total solar eclipses offer a unique opportunity to witness the moon completely covering the sun, revealing the sun's outer atmosphere called the corona.

📍To observe the total solar eclipse, you need to be within the path of totality, where the moon's shadow is cast on Earth.

☁️Having backup plans and monitoring weather forecasts is crucial for ensuring clear skies and avoiding being clouded out during the eclipse.

🏕️Consider camping instead of booking hotels for the eclipse, as campsites are still available and offer flexibility for chasing clear skies.

⚠️Purchase white light filters in advance for your telescopes, camera lenses, and binoculars to safely observe and photograph the eclipse.

What is a total solar eclipse?

—A total solar eclipse occurs when the moon passes between the sun and Earth, completely blocking the sun and revealing its outer atmosphere.

How long does totality last?

—The duration of totality can vary, but for the 2024 eclipse, it will last for a bit over four and a half minutes at maximum.

Where is the best place to view the 2024 eclipse?

—The southern part of the United States and Mexico offer the best chances of clear skies during the 2024 eclipse.

Do I need special equipment to view the eclipse?

—To view the eclipse safely, you will need white light filters for your telescopes, camera lenses, or binoculars.

What should I do if the weather is bad on the day of the eclipse?

—Having backup locations and being prepared to move based on local weather forecasts can help you avoid being clouded out during the eclipse.

00:00Get ready for the 2024 total solar eclipse by learning lessons from the 2017 eclipse.

03:53Having backup plans and monitoring weather forecasts is crucial for ensuring clear skies during the eclipse.

06:51Consider camping and booking campsites in the southern part of the United States or Mexico for the best chances of clear skies during the eclipse.

08:50Purchase white light filters for your equipment in advance to safely observe and photograph the eclipse.