A solar eclipse happens when the Moon blocks the Sun's light from reaching Earth. During a total eclipse, we can see the Sun's corona, its outer atmosphere, with our naked eyes.
There are four types of solar eclipses: partial, annular, total and hybrid. According to NASA, a total eclipse happens somewhere on Earth every year and a half, while partial eclipses occur at least twice a year.
It's safe to look at the Sun only during totality, the brief period of darkness during a total eclipse. Otherwise, looking at the Sun can damage your eyes.
NASA recommends using special glasses or indirect viewing devices throughout all phases of a solar eclipse.
A total solar eclipse will sweep across North America on Monday, April 8, 2024. This is a rare event that offers scientists a great opportunity to learn more about the Sun, Earth's atmosphere, and even how humans react to such events.
Scientists are particularly interested in studying the Sun's corona, the outermost part of its atmosphere. The eclipse will allow them to see the corona in a way that is not possible with normal instruments. They are also interested in studying the effects of the eclipse on Earth's ionosphere, which is important for communication and navigation.
The eclipse will also give scientists a chance to learn more about how animals behave during a total eclipse. For example, they will be studying whether birds migrate during the eclipse.
Finally, the eclipse is a chance for people to come together and experience the wonder of the universe. Scientists are planning to study how the eclipse affects people's sense of awe and connection to each other.
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