Anku Upmanyu 
On Monday, April 8, millions of North Americans along the path of totality will have the chance to see a 2024 total solar eclipse. You will observe partial solar eclipse on other parts of the continent. It will cover northwestern Mexico, 15 US states and southeastern Canada.
The path of totality is 200-km strip where the moon fully blocks the light of the sun. People will come out to watch and many institutions like NASA is inviting the public to participate with in-person events, opportunities to contribute to NASA science and multiple ways to watch online. Schools will have holiday on April 8 and will arrange once-in-a-lifetime solar events for kids to learn.
However, different countries have different rituals and belief about solar eclipse. Let’s delve into the diverse traditions observed in countries across the globe and how we can watch solar eclipse safely.
United States and Canada
In the United States and Canada, citizens are excited to watch the solar eclipse. There are special events like viewing parties, education talks for curious onlookers along the path of totality. Scientific institutions like NASA and amateur astronomers set up telescopes and observation stations to study the eclipse’s phenomenon and collect data on its effects.
China
Solar eclipse has strong cultural significance, according to their mythical beliefs, a celestial dragon devours the sun during the eclipse.
They used to come out and create noise by banging drums and shooting arrows into the sky to frighten away the dragon.
India
In India, solar eclipses hold spiritual significance, in Indian mythology, the demon Rahu is said to swallow the sun during eclipses, causing darkness. Indians perform special rituals and prayers to counteract negative influences. Astrological beliefs about the effects of eclipses on individuals and society influence behavior, with many people fasting or refraining from outdoor activities during the event.
Japan
In Japan, solar eclipses have been historically viewed as ominous events associated with death and disaster. Traditional customs include hanging black curtains to ward off evil spirits. However, in modern times, eclipse viewing parties are held, where participants use pinhole projectors or special glasses to safely observe the phenomenon.
Precautions and other information about 2024 solar eclipse
Whatever country you are situated, safety is the number one priority when viewing a total solar eclipse or going out during the solar eclipse.
NASA have released these safety guidelines which everyone need to follow during the solar eclipse to protect yourself from any harm.
How to find 2024 solar eclipse glasses
According to NASA’s eclipse safety website, the ISO 12312-2 glasses, are specifically developed and tested to prevent eye damage during an eclipse. The eyewear may also be labeled IOS 12312-2:2015. According to NASA, torn, scratched, or otherwise damaged eyewear should be discarded.
You can find your glasses here.
- The American Astronomical Society has a list of approved solar-eclipse glasses suppliers here. You’ can find eclipse glasses on Amazon also, however, check for ISO compliance.
- Check your library or Retail Stores: You can find relevant glasses at your nearest library or at retail stores like Walmart, but always ensure the standard and ISO Compliance before using.
Eclipse Path and Time
Details about Eclipse entire path of totality will be available in this helpful interactive map from NASA.
2024 solar eclipse timing as per your region
Where to watch live?
You can watch live on NASA’s website or NASA’s Youtube channel.
How is the weather on Total Eclipse Day
You can get complete details about the weather in your place on
NOAA’s Weather Prediction Center. Weather Prediction Center (WPC) Home Page (noaa.gov)
What are eclipse glasses?
You do not want to look directly towards sun during eclipse as it can cause permanent vision loss in worst scenario. Eclipse glasses allow people to look directly at the sun safely, without damaging their vision. They have stronger protections than regular sunglasses.
What is a solar eclipse?
When moon completely blocks Sun, while its passes between Sun and Earth, the sky will darken as it is dawn or dusk and we observe solar eclipse.
When is the solar eclipse 2024?
The 2024 solar eclipse is on Monday, April 8. Its path of totality will cross the United States from approx. 2:27 PM to 3:35 PM Eastern time.
When will be the next solar eclipse after 2024?
You do not want to miss this as the next will be on 23 Aug 2044, according to NASA also it depends where you live.
When was the last solar eclipse?
The last solar eclipse was observed on August 21, 2017. Totality lasted 2 minutes and 42 seconds.
What is the difference between Solar and Lunar eclipse?
Solar eclipse occurs when moon passes between earth and sun, blocking all or part of sun’s light. Lunar eclipse occurs when earth passes between sun and moon, casting a shadow on the moon.
You need to be careful while observing Solar eclipse, however, Lunar eclipse poses no direct danger to observer.
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[…] are excited about the Solar eclipse on April 8 and if you are living on the Path of Totality or have plans to visit and watch the Solar eclipse. […]