With a country that can’t seem to agree on much, events like the eclipse help us unify together in amazement of this scientific phenomenon. On August 21st 2017, a large strip of the entire United States will get to experience an incredible solar eclipse. While there are only 70 miles of the US that will be totally blocked out of the moon, every state will get to experience some form of an eclipse.
While eclipses happen often, a total solar eclipse is much rarer. We see an eclipse when earth’s shadow falls on the moon, but when a total eclipse occurs, or when the sun is completely blocked by the moon, the occurrence only lasts a couple of minutes. This incredible sight is only viewable to half a percent of earth’s surface and the alignment between the sun and moon must be perfect.
Because of this rarity, many people are traveling to catch a glimpse of this amazing wonder. The 70-mile stretch that will get to witness a total solar eclipse includes parts of: Oregon, Idaho, Wyoming, Nebraska, Missouri, Illinois, Kentucky, Tennessee, North Carolina, and South Carolina. This event hasn't happened across the Pacific and Atlantic Coasts like this since 1918!
If you’re thinking about joining the thousands traveling to see this phenomenon, make sure you come prepared with special eclipse viewing glasses. More than 7,000 local libraries have been giving out these glasses to protect your vision, but there have been shortages all over because of the huge public interest in this year's eclipse.
In addition to your glasses, don't forget the second-most important piece of eclipse viewing gear: your favorite hammock. While the total eclipse itself will only last a max of 2 minutes and 46 seconds, you're definitely going to want to get to your viewing spot early and stake out a comfortable spot. You're not going to be alone in your idea of getting outdoors to see the eclipse so be prepared for crowds and get out early!
The Trek Light Team wishes you a fun (and comfortable) solar eclipse experience this Monday!
Where are you headed to watch the eclipse? Are you lucky enough to be in the path of totality? Let us know about it in the comments!