The first total solar eclipse of 2024 is coming up on April 8th, offering sky watchers across North America a rare chance to observe this awe-inspiring cosmic phenomenon. But the question on many minds is – will it be viewable from India as well? Let’s take a closer look at what to expect from this upcoming eclipse and how you can watch it, if conditions allow.
A solar eclipse occurs when the Moon passes directly between the Earth and the Sun, casting its shadow on our planet. A total solar eclipse happens when the moon completely blocks the sun’s light within the moon’s umbra (darkest part of the shadow). This first major eclipse of 2024 will offer locations along the moon’s narrow path of totality a brief view of the sun’s beautiful outer atmosphere, known as the corona.
Unfortunately, the April 8th eclipse will not be visible from most of India as the path of totality will be over parts of North America. That said, some regions in extreme northeastern India like Arunachal Pradesh may witness a partial eclipse just before sunrise, if weather permits. Those lucky enough to be positioned along the path of totality in Washington, Oregon and Western Canada, however, will experience around 2 minutes of daylight turned into dusk as the moon entirely masks the sun.
While Indians won’t see a total blackout of the sun, skywatchers can still observe the lunar disk covering a part of the solar surface during the partial phases of the eclipse. But it’s critical to never look directly at the sun without appropriate eye protection like special solar filters or hand-held projection methods. The eclipse will begin around 9:01am and reach its maximum extent by 10:47am in parts of Arunachal Pradesh and northeast India.
So mark your calendars for April 8th and get ready for the moon to take a bite out of the sun. While a total solar treat isn’t in store for most of India, a partial eclipse will still be worth taking in if conditions allow. Just be sure to exercise extreme caution and enjoy the rare celestial showing safely. Clear skies!
