Solar Eclipse 2024

This is a good question! Noblesville was not in the path of totality in 2017, meaning that while we could see the eclipse in 2017, we were not able to witness the full effect of a total eclipse. This makes the April 8th eclipse that much more exciting! 

A solar eclipse occurs when the Moon passes between the Sun and the Earth, blocking all or part of the Sun's light. This can only happen during a new moon phase when the Sun and Moon are aligned in the sky. There are two main types of solar eclipses: total solar eclipses and partial solar eclipses. The type of eclipse that we’ll see in Indiana on April 8, 2024 is a total eclipse. It’s exciting because we in Indiana are also in the path of totality, which is a specific area on Earth where the eclipse can best be seen. 

Partial Solar Eclipse: In this case, only a part of the Sun is obscured by the Moon, and it looks like a dark shadow taking a bite out of the Sun. This can be seen from a broader region on Earth.

During either type of solar eclipse, it's essential to use proper eye protection or indirect viewing methods to avoid eye damage. Looking directly at the Sun, even during an eclipse, can be harmful to your eyes.

The solar eclipse of April 8, 2024, is often considered special in Indiana and other parts of North America because it will be a total solar eclipse, and the path of totality will pass through several states, including Indiana. 

• Total Solar Eclipse: A total solar eclipse occurs when the Moon completely covers the Sun, casting a shadow on Earth. During totality, the day briefly turns into night, and the Sun's corona becomes visible. Total solar eclipses are special events. 
• Path of Totality through Indiana: The path of totality for the 2024 eclipse will pass through the U.S., including parts of Indiana. This means that observers within the path will experience the full darkness of totality, providing a unique and spectacular astronomical event for those in the region.

It's important to plan for safe viewing using proper eye protection or indirect viewing methods to avoid any harm to your eyes during the eclipse.

The safety of our students is our top priority. It is crucial that everyone uses proper eye protection to view the eclipse safely. Even though the sun will appear completely covered, viewing the solar eclipse with proper eye protection is extremely important.  The glasses we have sent home meet the international safety standards for direct solar viewing and will ensure a safe and enjoyable experience. Here are some things to keep in mind:

1. When watching the partial phases (which happen before and after totality) of the solar eclipse directly with your eyes, you must look through safe solar viewing glasses (“eclipse glasses”) such as the ones we sent home, or a safe handheld solar viewer at all times.

2. Eclipse glasses are NOT regular sunglasses as regular sunglasses are not safe for viewing the Sun. 

3. Safe solar viewers comply with the ISO 12312-2 international standard.

Other important reminders: 

• Never look directly at the Sun through telescopes, binoculars, cameras, or any optical device without proper solar filters.

• Do not use homemade filters, CDs, DVDs, or smoked glass as solar filters.

• Do not use regular sunglasses as they do not provide sufficient protection.

• If you experience discomfort or vision problems while viewing the eclipse, stop immediately and consult an eye care professional.

Protecting your eyes is crucial, and proper viewing methods ensures a safe and enjoyable experience during a solar eclipse.

Solar eclipses provide a unique opportunity for scientists and astronomers to learn more about the Sun. Some of the observations and studies conducted during solar eclipses include:

• Solar Corona Studies: During a total solar eclipse, the Sun's outer atmosphere, called the corona, becomes visible. The corona is much fainter than the Sun's surface and is usually obscured by its brightness. Scientists can study the corona's temperature, structure, and dynamics during these brief moments of visibility.
• Solar Activity: Eclipses allow scientists to observe the Sun's surface and study different features of it. The darkening of the Sun during an eclipse provides a contrast that makes these features more visible.
• Earth's Atmosphere Studies: Solar eclipses also offer an opportunity to study Earth's atmosphere. Changes in temperature, wind patterns, and other atmospheric phenomena can be observed during an eclipse.
• Space Weather Research: Solar eclipses provide a natural laboratory to study the impact of changes in solar radiation. This research can help scientists understand changes in the weather in outer space!