The April 8 solar eclipse visible across the country was a once-in-a-lifetime experience for many.

On April 8, 15 states were lucky enough to witness a total solar eclipse. From Texas to Maine, a blanket of darkness swept across the United States, marking an archival event for celestial history here on Earth. The few minutes of darkness captured the attention of astronomers and civilians alike due to its path over many densely populated areas throughout the country. Places such as Dallas, Cleveland, and Indianapolis had the spotlight during this dark hour. Hotels, Air B&Bs, airports, and even tents were filled to capacity along the path of totality. It wasn’t only humans who were affected by this event. From the street lights turning on in the middle of the day to the sounds of night-dwelling creatures, many non-human members within the path of totality became very confused.

The alignment of the sun, moon, and Earth marks great rarity. In order for the sun’s radiance to seemingly be fully covered by the moon takes great precision and chance. This extraordinary cosmic alliance creates scenes that nobody would be able to see without these special circumstances. As the Moon transcends over the Sun, we are able to view the sun’s atmosphere, along with the solar flares that violently shoot out from the sun. The few minutes of ideal viewing had astronomers fascinated and working quickly to gather as much information as they could while still admiring the beautiful event. 

Many of those who were lucky enough to experience the total eclipse marked this as a once-in-a-lifetime experience. But not to worry, those who were unable to have a front-row seat in the path of totality still have a chance in the future, as this precise alignment will return to the United States in the summer of 2044. 

Mark your calendars, as this is an event you won’t want to miss!

By Onyn Season