On April 8, 2024, a total solar eclipse will pass over the United States. This is a rare event that only happens about two decades apart and will be visible from all of the lower 48 U.S. states (USAToday). The moon's shadow can only strike Earth when a new moon crosses the ecliptic at precisely the right time, causing this phenomenon (Space).
The path of totality for this solar eclipse will run first through Texas, then up through Oklahoma, Arkansas, Missouri, Illinois, Kentucky, Indiana, Ohio, Pennsylvania, New York, Vermont, New Hampshire and Maine. Slivers of both Tennessee and Michigan also fall into the path (WSAV).
The moon's shadow can only strike Earth when a new moon crosses the ecliptic at precisely the right time. This is why it is important to note that this event will occur during 2024's first (and best) eclipse season, which features two eclipses - one of the moon by the Earth and one of the sun by the moon (Space).
The surreal midday darkness of a total solar eclipse is an incredible sight to behold. However, seeing it requires some planning. Clouds may block the view in some areas but high wispy clouds won't spoil the show if they are present (USAToday). It is important to note that outside of the path of totality, there is no such thing as a 99.9% total eclipse; even if you are only just outside by just a couple of miles, and it says 99.9% of the sun is covered up, that means you still have .1% of the sun showing (WSAV).
For those in Ohio, Christ Evangelical Lutheran Church in Avon Lake will be literally going to be hallowed ground during total solar eclipse as it is located right on the center line. Many 'eclipse chasers' believe that this is the only place to witness a total solar eclipse (WSAV).
The moon moving through Earth's outer shadow in space, known as penumbral lunar eclipse, will occur two weeks prior to the total solar eclipse on March 25. This event will be visible from all of North and South America (CBSNews).