On Monday, a total solar eclipse is set to traverse the United States from coast to coast, leading to a surge in anticipation amongst eclipse enthusiasts. The travel costs for this celestial event are also soaring, with many hard-core eclipse fans having already made their plans well in advance. In 2017, a similar solar eclipse led to central Oregon becoming a hotspot, as people flocked to witness the spectacular phenomenon in person. For those interested in witnessing the total solar eclipse this time around, there is still a chance to do so.
One individual who had meticulously planned a road trip to witness the eclipse near Austin, Texas had to cancel due to a cold. However, the opportunity to view the eclipse in Indiana presented itself when the individual received an invitation from their brother. With a last-minute booking at a resort near Nashville, Ind., and a flight from Seattle to Cincinnati, the individual found themselves back on track to witness the eclipse. Bracing for hordes of visitors, heavy traffic, and potential internet outages, the individual is excited for the magical experience of seeing day turn to night under the shadow of a total solar eclipse.
For those unable to make the trip to the zone of totality, there are still ways to experience the eclipse online or witness its partial phase in their local skies if they have the right equipment. In the Pacific Northwest, the partial eclipse will only obscure 20% of the sun’s disk, which may be difficult to notice without proper viewing equipment. Viewing the partial eclipse safely requires the use of eclipse glasses, pinhole cameras, or projecting crescent patterns using everyday items to avoid damaging the eyes.
Those in Seattle on eclipse day may face cloudy skies, potentially obstructing the view of the partial eclipse. To increase the chances of seeing the eclipse, individuals can check cloud forecast maps online to find areas with clearer skies. While experiencing a total solar eclipse in person is incomparable, online platforms such as NASA’s live stream, the Exploratorium museum webcasts, and TV network coverage offer alternatives for those unable to witness the event in person.
Looking ahead to the next total solar eclipse in 2045, it is evident that eclipse coverage has evolved significantly since the last event in 1979. Online platforms, such as Twitch, are offering unique experiences by combining live eclipse coverage with gameplay from popular video games. Whether watching the eclipse in person or online, the event continues to captivate audiences and inspire awe for the wonders of the universe. Stay tuned for recaps from individuals experiencing the eclipse in Nashville, Ind., and other locations within the eclipse zone.
