Scientists and solar enthusiasts have their eyes set on the upcoming total solar eclipse on April 8, as it presents a unique opportunity to witness rare solar phenomena. From coronal mass ejections (CMEs) to solar flares and giant eruptive prominences, researchers hope to capture these awe-inspiring events and gain further insight into the dynamic nature of our local star.

One of the phenomena that could be visible during the eclipse is a coronal mass ejection (CME). Ryan French, a solar physicist at the National Solar Observatory, explained that if luck is on their side, a CME might present itself as a twisted spiral structure high in the sun's atmosphere. CMEs are massive ejections of magnetic field and plasma mass from the sun's corona, which move at a swift pace but appear stationary over a few hours.

French also highlighted that the same CME eruption could be observed from different locations, such as Rochester and Dallas, at different stages of the long-duration event. As the moon's shadow crosses North America in about 100 minutes, a CME could occur just before the eclipse, making it visible to observers across the continent under clear skies.

Solar flares, powerful bursts of radio waves, visible light, X-rays, and gamma-rays, might accompany CMEs. However, French pointed out that the chances of witnessing a solar flare during totality are unlikely. Solar flares occur lower in the sun's atmosphere, closer to the moon's edge, and would only be visible for a few minutes. They often follow CMEs and can be seen as low-altitude prominences with red loops closer to the sun's surface.

Prominences, large features on the sun's surface, will be visible during totality on April 8. While some prominences may erupt and expand into the solar system, eclipse chasers hope to catch a glimpse of "giant eruptive" prominences detached from the sun's surface and freely floating in the corona. French highlighted that there have been a few examples of such eruptions in recent months, which would have provided a spectacular show if they had occurred during a total solar eclipse. However, non-eruptive prominences will still be visible, albeit smaller and closer to the sun's surface.

To capture these momentary solar events, scientists are exploring ways to extend the duration of totality. One method is to chase the moon's shadow using a supersonic jet, as was done in 1973 with the Concorde, resulting in a 73-minute totality. Another approach is to film the eclipsed sun from different locations across the continent and hope to catch the beginning or end of an event. On April 8, the total solar eclipse will last a remarkable 68 minutes, allowing for increased opportunities to capture rare solar phenomena.

Amir Caspi, principal scientist at the Southwest Research Institute, suggests that the sun's incredibly dynamic nature, with some processes occurring within minutes or even seconds, makes it challenging to study during the short duration of an eclipse. However, the Citizen Continental-America Telescopic Eclipse (CATE 2024) project, led by Caspi, aims to create a continuous 60-minute 3D movie of the sun's corona using standardized cameras and setups. Thirty-five teams of citizen scientists will participate, each hoping to capture unique solar occurrences.

As April 8 approaches, scientists and enthusiasts eagerly anticipate the rare opportunity to witness and study solar phenomena during the total solar eclipse. With advancements in technology and collaborative efforts, researchers hope to gain invaluable insights into the sun's dynamic behavior and how it impacts our planet.