Total Solar Eclipse

What happens when the moon’s shadow passes over earth and blocks out the sun? A total solar eclipse! Eclipses follow different paths around the world, so you can see eclipses at various times from various vantage points. On April 8, 2024, the path of a total solar eclipse will cross parts of the United States. Ask an adult if you will see the eclipse from where you live.

God created the sun and the moon on day four of creation week. The sun is 400 times larger than the moon, but the sun is 400 times farther away from earth than the moon. This makes the sun and moon appear to be about the same size in the sky. During an eclipse, the moon is just big enough to cover the sun.

Solar eclipses are amazing, but remember that looking at the sun can be very dangerous. You can wear a pair of cardboard solar eclipse glasses to protect your eyes until the sun is completely covered. Then take them off—you don’t want to miss the eclipse! As you admire this special moment, remember the Creator who spoke the moon and the sun into existence.

During an Eclipse

• Totality happens when the sun is completely covered.
• The sky will get dark enough for you to see some bright stars and planets.
• At totality, the sun is ringed with a white glow called the corona.

Did You Know?

• An eclipse can last as long as 7 and a half minutes.
• The last total solar eclipse to cross the US was in August 2017.
• After April 2024, the next solar eclipse in the US won’t happen for another 20 years!