The total solar eclipse of April 8, 2024, also known as the Great North American Eclipse, was a celestial event that captivated millions across North America. It traversed a path from Mexico, through the United States, and into Canada. During a total solar eclipse, the Moon passes between the Earth and the Sun, and if the Moon's apparent diameter is larger than the Sun's, it blocks all direct sunlight, revealing the Sun's corona. The path of totality, where the eclipse was fully visible, was significantly wider and lasted longer than the previous eclipse in 2017.
The longest duration of totality occurred near Nazas, Durango, Mexico, lasting for 4 minutes and 28 seconds. This was the longest totality on land since 2010 and until 2027. The eclipse's visibility was due to a remarkable coincidence: the Moon appearing to be the same size as the Sun from Earth. On April 8, 2024, the Moon’s apparent diameter was 5.5% larger than average. Approximately 44 million people lived within the path of totality, and an estimated 50 million people experienced it, including those who traveled to witness the event. The next total solar eclipse over the continental U.S. will occur on August 23, 2044.
