A total solar eclipse is set to captivate the skies of North America on Monday, April 8, 2024. This celestial event is expected to offer a mesmerizing spectacle for tens of millions of people residing in the path of totality, as well as those who plan to travel to witness the rare phenomenon.

During a solar eclipse, which occurs when the moon passes between Earth and the sun during the new moon phase, a shadow is cast on Earth, partially or completely blocking our view of the sun. Although there is an average of two solar eclipses every year, a particular location on Earth only experiences the path of totality every 375 years on average, as reported by Astronomy.

To catch a glimpse of this awe-inspiring event, individuals may need to travel, as staying in their hometowns may not offer the opportunity to observe an eclipse. John Gianforte, director of the University of New Hampshire Observatory, emphasizes the magnificence of witnessing a solar eclipse, stating that they evoke strong emotions in people who witness them. He encourages everyone to experience at least one in their lifetime, describing them as "emotion-evoking natural events."

Here are some remarkable facts about the upcoming solar eclipse in 2024:

1. The total eclipse will commence at 12:39 p.m. Eastern Time, approximately 620 miles south of the Republic of Kiribati in the Pacific Ocean, according to Astronomy.
2. The umbra, the darker inner shadow cast by the moon, will be in contact with Earth's surface for three hours and 16 minutes, ending in the Atlantic Ocean at 3:55 p.m., around 340 miles southwest of Ireland.
3. The path of totality extends from the Mexican border, just south of Texas' Eagle Pass, to Houlton, Maine, with a duration of one hour and eight minutes, according to NASA.
4. The longest period of totality, lasting four minutes and 28 seconds, will occur along a 350-mile-long swath near the centerline of the eclipse, including areas west of Torreón, Mexico.
5. Population estimates indicate that a staggering 31.6 million people will reside in the path of totality for the 2024 solar eclipse, significantly surpassing the 12 million residents who witnessed the previous eclipse that traversed the U.S. in 2017, as per NASA.

Furthermore, the 2024 eclipse offers unique features and possibilities for observation. It is anticipated to occur during the "solar maximum," the most active phase of the sun's approximately 11-year solar cycle. As a result, more prominent and evident sun activity is expected during the total phase of the eclipse.

Observers can anticipate an extended, active corona with distinct spikes, curls, and streamers emanating from the sun. Prominences, pink explosions of plasma that leap off the sun's surface and streamers, are expected to be visible against the black silhouette of the new moon crossing the sun's disk.

In addition to the solar spectacle, Venus and Jupiter will be visible in proximity to the sun. Venus will shine more than five times brighter than Jupiter, with Jupiter appearing approximately 30 degrees east-northeast of the sun. Comet 12P/Pons-Brooks, known for its circular gas cloud and long tail, may also be visible to observers.

Furthermore, the 2024 eclipse may evoke unique atmospheric phenomena. NASA notes the possibility of a "360-degree sunset," causing a sunset-like glow in every direction during totality. Additionally, as the sun is temporarily blocked, temperatures are expected to noticeably drop, and animals may exhibit altered behavior.

After the 2024 eclipse, the next total eclipse in the U.S. is not expected until March 30, 2033. However, totality will reportedly only occur in parts of Alaska. The subsequent eclipse in the contiguous 48 states will happen on August 12, 2044, with Montana and North Dakota witnessing totality.

The 2024 solar eclipse promises to be an enchanting celestial display, drawing millions of eager onlookers. As this rare event approaches, astronomers and enthusiasts alike are eagerly preparing for the awe-inspiring beauty of the cosmos unfolding above.