Get ready for a spectacular event in 2024! A total solar eclipse will happen on April 8, 2024. This means the moon will move between the Earth and the sun, creating a shadow that will pass over parts of North America, including 15 U.S. states, Mexico, and Canada. It’ll be quite a show!

The eclipse will start on the Pacific coast of Mexico at 11:07 a.m. PDT and finish on the Atlantic coast of Newfoundland and Labrador at 6:18 p.m. local time. In the U.S., it’ll start in Texas at 1:27 p.m. CDT and end in Maine around 3:35 p.m. EDT. People across the country will be able to see at least a partial eclipse.

During the total eclipse phase, which lasts around 4 minutes and 28 seconds depending on where you are, you can see the sun’s corona—a glowing halo around the sun—and the sky will get dark, letting stars and planets shine through. It’s a breathtaking sight!

But remember, looking directly at the sun is dangerous, even during an eclipse. You’ll need special eclipse glasses or filters for telescopes to keep your eyes safe.

This eclipse is a reminder of how amazing our universe is. Whether you’re in the path of totality or watching from afar, take a moment to appreciate the beauty of the total solar eclipse of 2024. It’s a once-in-a-lifetime experience!

MYTHS ABOUT SOLAR ECLIPSE:

There’s a common belief in Pakistan and India that pregnant women should avoid certain activities during an eclipse to prevent their baby from having birthmarks. Some say they shouldn’t sleep, bathe, or even cut fruits or vegetables during that time.

But there’s no scientific basis for these beliefs. There’s no evidence that eclipses have any effect on pregnancy or the appearance of a baby’s skin. It’s just a myth!