Solar eclipses are strange things. Yet they happen so rarely, it’s easy to forget exactly what they are. Many people who like learning about science and nature love learning about these strange, yet rare occurrences to Earth. A solar eclipse occurs when the Moon passes between the Earth and the Sun. This blocks the Sun and causes it to become darker outside. Each solar eclipse usually happens every few years. The last major solar eclipse that swept North America was in 2017. Now, in 2024, another one has arrived. How do solar eclipses affect the country? And how does the public respond and prepare? When can we expect the next one?

When the date for the most recent solar eclipse was announced, Americans took time to prepare. While some Americans believe solar eclipses to be dangerous, they are actually safe to look at when you have the proper eyewear. There are certain special types of glasses, such as eclipse glasses, which resemble sunglasses, or certain glasses you would use to watch 3D movies in film theaters. Looking at them with the proper glasses is absolutely safe. Millions of people sat outside and watched in amazement as the Sun was blocked while the Moon passed over. The Moon’s apparent diameter was 5.5 percent larger than on average. The magnitude of the 2024 eclipse was 1.0566, and the eclipse lasted 4 minutes and 28 seconds. The next solar eclipse in the US won’t be visible for a while. The next eclipse will be later this year in October, but the next eclipse won’t happen in the United States until 2044. Even though Americans have a while to wait, it’s certainly an exciting time that only happens once in a while.