Where is the eclipse visible in the US?

Chasing Shadows: Where to Catch the Next Eclipse in the U.S.

Okay, eclipse enthusiasts, let’s talk! Remember the buzz around the April 8, 2024, total solar eclipse? What an incredible experience! Millions across North America craned their necks, donned those funny glasses, and collectively gasped as day turned into twilight. But if you missed it, or you’re already itching for the next one, you might be wondering: when and where can I see another total solar eclipse in the good ol’ U.S. of A.?

Well, here’s the scoop: if you’re planning to stay within the contiguous United States, you’ll have to be patient. The next total solar eclipse gracing our skies won’t be until August 23, 2044. That’s a bit of a wait, I know! However, if you’re up for an adventure to the Last Frontier, Alaska will experience a total solar eclipse sooner, on March 30, 2033.

Glimpse into the Future: Total Solar Eclipses on the Horizon

Let’s peek at what those 2044 and 2045 eclipses have in store:

• August 23, 2044: This one’s a bit of a teaser. It starts its journey in Greenland, swings through Canada, and then gives the U.S. a quick hello at sunset in Montana, North Dakota, and South Dakota. So, prime viewing will be a race against the setting sun!
• August 12, 2045: Now this is the one to circle on your calendar! This total solar eclipse will be a coast-to-coast spectacle, stretching from California all the way to Florida. Talk about a prime-time event!

Did you know that in the 21st century, the U.S. gets ten total solar eclipses? Eight of those will be visible from the contiguous U.S. Not bad, right?

Solar Eclipses 101: A Quick Refresher

So, what’s the big deal about a solar eclipse, anyway? Simply put, it’s when the Moon slides right between the Sun and Earth, throwing a shadow our way. Total solar eclipses are a bit like winning the lottery, astronomically speaking. The Moon’s orbit is tilted, which is why they don’t happen every month. When everything lines up perfectly, the Moon completely blocks the Sun, and for a few precious minutes, you can witness something truly magical. During that brief totality, you can even sneak a peek without those special glasses!

And then there are annular solar eclipses. These happen when the Moon is a little farther away, so it doesn’t quite cover the whole Sun. The result? A breathtaking “ring of fire” in the sky.

Eyes on the Sky, Safety First!

Okay, this is super important: NEVER, EVER look directly at the sun during a partial solar eclipse without proper eye protection. Seriously, you could damage your eyes. Think of it like staring directly at a welding arc – not a good idea! Invest in certified solar filters (look for the ISO 12312-2 stamp) or get crafty and make a pinhole projector.

What Else is Coming?

Okay, so 2044 is a ways off. What else can we look forward to? A partial solar eclipse will occur on August 12, 2026, and will be visible in North America. The path of totality will be over Greenland, Iceland, Spain and Russia.

The Long Game

Alright, fellow sky-gazers, start planning those trips for 2044 and 2045! And in the meantime, stay safe, keep looking up, and never lose that sense of wonder. After all, the universe is full of surprises!