Solar Eclipse 2024 : Visibility in India, How long it will last, When & Where to Watch

Have you ever looked up at the sky during the day and noticed it getting darker? It might seem strange, but there’s a fascinating phenomenon behind it: a solar eclipse! Let’s dive into what a solar eclipse is, why it happens, and what makes it so captivating.

On April 8, 2024, sky gazers across North America will witness a breathtaking celestial event: the total solar eclipse. Imagine the Sun, our fiery cosmic neighbor, momentarily disappearing behind the Moon’s shadow. It’s like nature’s own magic trick, and you’re invited to the front row!

Let’s break it down in simple terms. The Moon orbits Earth, right? Well, sometimes it aligns perfectly between the Sun and our planet. When this cosmic alignment occurs, the Moon’s shadow falls upon Earth, creating a temporary twilight. During a total solar eclipse, the Sun’s dazzling face vanishes, and the sky darkens as if it were dawn or dusk.

The eclipse’s path will sweep across Mexico, the United States, and Canada. Picture the Moon’s shadow racing over the South Pacific Ocean, then making landfall on Mexico’s Pacific coast around 11:07 a.m. PDT. As the Moon continues its cosmic dance, the shadow will glide over North America, casting awe-inspiring darkness in its wake.

Solar Eclipse 2024 Date and time

Mark your calendars! The total solar eclipse of 2024 is scheduled for April 8, 2024. It’s a rare occurrence, so you won’t want to miss it.

Indian Standard Time (IST): The eclipse will begin at 9:12 PM on April 8 and continue until 2:22 AM on April 9, 2024. So, if you’re in India, grab your cosmic glasses and get ready for an otherworldly show!

While the eclipse won’t be visible in India, our friends across the ocean in the US, Canada, Mexico, and parts of North America are in for a treat. The eclipse will start at 9:12 PM and conclude at 2:22 AM on April 9, 2024.

Importance of Total Solar Eclipse 2024

A total solar eclipse is a celestial spectacle that captivates both scientists and casual observers alike. It occurs when the moon aligns perfectly between the Earth and the sun, momentarily blocking out the sun’s brilliant disk. During this cosmic dance, something extraordinary happens: the sun’s outer atmosphere, known as the corona, becomes visible. This elusive corona is typically too faint to see directly due to the sun’s intense brightness.

When to Watch Eid-ul-Fitr Moon Sighting in India

Eid-ul-Fitr, the joyous festival that marks the end of Ramadan, is eagerly awaited by Muslims worldwide. It’s a time of celebration, prayers, and coming together with loved ones. But when exactly should you watch for the new moon to kick off this festive occasion in India? Let’s explore!

The Significance of Moon Sighting

The heart of Eid-ul-Fitr lies in the sighting of the Shawwal crescent moon. This celestial event determines the precise date of the festival. Muslims gather at mosques or open spaces, dressed in their finest attire, to offer special prayers. It’s a day of joy, feasting, and sharing blessings with others.

The Tradition of Moon Sighting

Traditionally, the sighting of the new moon occurs on the 29th day of Ramadan. If the crescent moon becomes visible shortly after sunset, Ramadan concludes, and Eid-ul-Fitr begins the following day. However, if the moon remains elusive, Ramadan extends to 30 days.

Local Observations and Debates

Despite technological advancements, physical moon sighting remains prevalent in many Muslim-majority countries. Local moon sighting committees or religious authorities play a crucial role in confirming the sighting and announcing the start of Eid-ul-Fitr. This adherence to tradition emphasizes communal observation and cultural significance.

Eid-ul-Fitr in India: The Date to Remember

For Eid-ul-Fitr in 2024, keep your eyes on the evening sky on April 9, 2024. If the crescent moon graces us with its presence on this day, the festival will be celebrated on April 10, 2024. It’s a time for forgiveness, unity, and gratitude—a day when Muslims express their appreciation for the blessings of Ramadan.

Where to watch Solar Eclipse 2024

The Solar Eclipse 2024 is scheduled for April 8, 2024. The path of totality—the region where the eclipse is visible in its full glory—will stretch across North America. Here are some key locations along the path:

Mexico: The eclipse begins here, near the coastal city of Mazatlán.

United States: The eclipse sweeps across several states, including Texas, Mississippi, Tennessee, Ohio, Indiana, Pennsylvania, and New York.

Canada: The Atlantic coast of Canada will witness the eclipse’s grand finale.

How to Safely View the Eclipse

Safety first! Never look directly at the Sun during an eclipse without proper eye protection. Here’s how to safely view the Solar Eclipse 2024:

Solar Eclipse Glasses: Purchase certified solar eclipse glasses. These special glasses block harmful rays while allowing you to witness the celestial show.

Where to Watch Online

Can’t make it to the path of totality? No worries! You can still experience the magic online:

NASA Livestream : NASA will provide two livestreams on YouTube and their streaming platform NASA+. Tune in to see live feeds from telescopes capturing the eclipse. PBS NOVA will also host an eclipse stream on YouTube.

Disney Plus and Hulu : These streaming services will broadcast “Eclipse Across America” starting at 2 p.m. ET. Get ready for expert commentary and breathtaking visuals.

ABC, CBS, and NBC : These major broadcast channels will air eclipse specials. ABC’s “Eclipse Across America” will also be on National Geographic Channel, Nat Geo WILD, Disney Plus, Hulu, and network social media platforms.

CNN: CNN cameras and drones will be positioned across the path of totality, providing live coverage. Reporters will be on hand in Mexico and throughout the United States.