Seeing, Hearing, and Feeling the Eclipse.

(Plain Text Version)

A total eclipse of the Sun is an opportunity for a number of unique experiences.  Here are some:

The Partial Phase

When the partial phase of the eclipse is progressing, the sky will darken.  Unlike sunrise and sunset, the sky will take on a grey cast, rather than red or orange.  Shadows, which are normally have a blurred outline, will get sharper and sharper as totality approaches. 

As more and more of the Sun is covered, we will feel the chill. 

The darkening of the sky and the chill will cause wildlife to make different sounds as they get ready for night time. 

Totality Approaches

For a few minutes before totality, very subtle dark shadow bands are sometimes seen on the ground.

During the few seconds before totality, the last bits of sunlight form features called the Diamond Ring and Bailey’s Beads.

If you are in a high-rise or another good vantage point, you may see the central shadow of the Moon (called the umbra) as it covers the ground.  It will move quickly, around 2000 mph!

Totality

Suddenly, all sunlight will be absent, except for a dim glow at the horizons.  This light comes from distant places where the Sun is only partially eclipsed. 

The Sun’s Corona will be visible.  This is the outer region of the Sun’s atmosphere.  It is not normally seen because it is overpowered by light from the disk of the Sun.

In addition to the corona, we will be able to see red solar prominences.  Prominences are plumes of extremely hot gas protruding from the surface of the Sun.  They are not a large feature, but can be seen at the edge of the eclipsed Sun.

Since it is dark, stars and planets will be visible.  On April 8, all of the bright planets will be visible.  This is a unique opportunity to view all the large bodies of the solar system in a single glance!  Venus will be extremely bright.  Jupiter, Saturn and Mars should be easy to find.  Mercury will be dim and close to the Sun. 

After Totality

All of the “before totality” events will be seen in reverse order.  The brightening Sun will provide a smooth transition to life as we knew it.

#RealSimpleAstronomy