“That’s one thing Earthlings might learn to do, if they tried hard enough: Ignore the awful times and concentrate on the good ones.” Kurt Vonnegut Some will say that at present we are living in awful times (I would disagree). Many are stressed by everything from societal unrest to the high price of eggs, and more.
We have wars and rumors of wars, stomach churning political discord, crime in our streets, and trouble galore. But I would argue that even given the problems of this current world, now, right now, is a very good time to be loitering here on planet Earth, especially if you reside in the Texas Hill Country or thereabouts. For we are soon to have a front row seat for one of the greatest astronomical shows the universe has to offer. Itpromises to be spectacular!
On Monday, April 8, 2024, a total solar eclipse will be visible across a significant portion of North America. A solar eclipse occurs when the moon passes between the Earth and the sun, obstructing our view. When the moon’s apparent diameter is larger than the sun’s, a total solar eclipse occurs. In a total solar eclipse, the moon blocks all direct sunlight, and the day is turned into darkness. Those who have encountered this say it is an emotional experience, something of almost Biblical proportions. In the U.S. totality will be visible on a path from Texas to Maine.
The partial phase phenomenon is the time leading up to totality and immediately afterwards. This timeline is divided into contact points, labeled C1,C2, C3, and C4.
C1 is first contact. This is when the moon first takes a bite out of the sun. C2, or second contact, is when totality starts, and the moon completely covers the sun. This will last approximately 3-4 minutes. C3 is when the moon begins to move off the sun and daylight returns. C4 is reached when the moon completely moves off the sun. Totality takes place between C2 and C3.
It is important to note that during the partial phases of the eclipse it is not safe to look at the sun without protective glasses. If you look at the partial phases of the eclipse without safety glasses, you’ll burn your eyes out! Be ready and obtain your viewing glasses ahead of time. To protect your eyes and be safe, glass- es must be ISO certified and no more than three years old.
Look for ISO # 12312-2 safety rating which should be printed on the side of your glasses. Glasses must be worn during all the partial phases of the eclipse. It is safe however to remove them during totality, when the moon completely covers the sun, and it is dark. You will want to experience darkness with your own eyes.
If you are afield, or in a natu ral environment, pay attention to your surroundings as the eclipse takes place. Listen for the sound of crickets. They will begin singing about 15 minutes prior to totality. As the sky darkens, you might notice birds flying to roost. If you have chickens, observe their behavior. They will prepare for bed.
Notice shadows on the ground. It is a good idea to bring a sheet or white piece of cardboard to place on the ground. Shadow bands or shadow snakes will be visible, especially after C3, when the moon moves away. Of special interest is something called the Purkinje Effect.
During the eclipse, the color sensitivity of your eyes changes and you will notice that you see colors differently. Try wearing bright colors in order to observe this.
This Great North American Total Solar Eclipse promises an amazing cosmic experience for those of us who will protect our eyes and wade outdoors.
For many, it may prove to be the experience of a lifetime. It is surely something that you don’t want to miss.
For all of us Earthlings, this promises to be a good time.
© 2024 Jody Dyer typewriterweekly.com
