On August 21st, a total solar eclipse will pass across the United States from coast to coast for the first time in 99 years, and it’s going to epic! For those lucky ones in the 70 mile wide center of the moon’s shadow, known as totality, the sky will go dark for a few minutes in the middle of the day. And it’s all because of a cosmic coincidence. From the Earth, both the moon and sun will appear to be roughly the same size as their paths cross on this rare occurrence.
Experiencing a total solar eclipse in person is an assault on the senses. Some phenomenal events occur during an eclipse that show the close connection between nature and the universe. The sudden loss of sunlight can cause the temperature to quickly drop 10 degrees or more. Winds calm in the sudden darkness and birds and other animals become silent, preparing for night. The change in lighting casts unique shadows with much sharper detail than we’re used to seeing. Stars and planets can even be seen to the naked eye during totality. The sun’s atmosphere, known as the corona, displays its fiery, iridescent color during totality – and is the only time the corona is visible to the naked eye.
Those in places like Salem, Casper, Nashville and Charleston will see totality and experience the full effects of the solar eclipse. But don’t worry, the entire U.S. will see anywhere from 20 to 100 percent of the sun covered by the moon. Everyone in all 50 states will get to experience this incredible event. You won’t want to miss it.
There’s plenty of information available online about the eclipse, but we’ve found a great site that shows you exactly what the eclipse will look like in your zip code, and the best time to see it on Monday.
Click below to see what the eclipse will look like in your zip code, and the best time to see it:
