Thousands of eager spectators have flocked to the Northeastern states of Massachusetts, New Hampshire, Maine, and Vermont, among others, to witness what is being hailed as the largest eclipse of their lifetimes. As the total solar eclipse makes its way across the United States, throngs of people are gathering along the Pacific coast, with its trajectory set to race towards the Northeast and eastern Canada before exiting into the Atlantic. The moon's shadow will travel a remarkable distance of over 4,000 miles across the continent in just 1 hour and 40 minutes.

Massachusetts will experience a partial solar eclipse, with the moon's shadow blocking between 90 to 93% of the sun. The phenomenon will commence around 2:15 p.m. and peak just before 3:30 p.m., offering spectators a breathtaking celestial display. In Boston, the eclipse will begin at 2:16 p.m. when the edge of the moon touches the edge of the sun, reaching its deepest point at 3:29 p.m. with 92.5% of the sun obscured. The eclipse is expected to conclude at 4:39 p.m.

As anticipation grows, traffic maps have depicted heavy congestion along I-93 north through New Hampshire's Franconia Notch, with delays stretching up to 10 miles on the narrow one-lane roadway. The Hooksett toll plaza has also experienced lengthy delays, causing frustration among travelers.

Many visitors have been planning their trips for some time, while spontaneous wanderers have decided on a whim to venture out on this momentous occasion. In rural towns within the path of totality in New Hampshire, resourceful locals have seized the opportunity to sell backyard parking spaces to eclipse enthusiasts, with prices ranging between $20 to $40 per car.

In Burlington, Vermont, large crowds have assembled at Waterfront Park, overlooking the scenic Lake Champlain and the grandeur of the Adirondack Mountains, since the early hours of the morning. Approximately 2,500 individuals have estimated to have gathered, armed with telescopes and picnic blankets, in order to secure optimal viewing positions and engage in games to pass the time. The city, anticipating a staggering 50,000 attendees, is making preparations to accommodate the influx of eclipse viewers.

In their pursuit of the celestial spectacle, some travelers have encountered delays at Tesla charging stations along I-91, as they journey northward to catch a glimpse of the eclipse.

Total solar eclipses occur roughly every 18 months, but often transpire over remote regions where few witnesses can appreciate their wonder. Remarkably, this event marks the first time since August 21, 2017, that a total eclipse will cast millions of North Americans into midday darkness. Massachusetts, along with 12 other states, including Texas, New York, and Vermont, will experience the path of totality.

With the excitement palpable and anticipation building, spectators from all walks of life have come together to witness a rare celestial event that will be etched in their memories for a lifetime.

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