Get Ready for the 2024 Solar Eclipse

Viewing The 2024 Solar Eclipse

Today marks a celestial event that promises to awe and inspire observers across the United States—the 2024 solar eclipse. This spectacular event is set to unfold, offering a breathtaking display as the moon passes between the Earth and the sun. Here’s everything you need to know about this rare cosmic occurrence, including when and how to view it safely.

A Once-in-a-Lifetime Experience

The much-anticipated 2024 solar eclipse is set to grace the skies today, showcasing a mesmerizing dance between the moon and the sun. This celestial spectacle will start at approximately 1:54 p.m. ET in Charlotte, North Carolina, with the peak of the partial eclipse occurring around 3:11 p.m. ET. By 4:26 p.m. ET, the eclipse will conclude, leaving behind an unforgettable memory for all who witness it.

Where to Watch and What to Expect

While the path of totality will start in Mexico and extend through Texas, the Midwest, northern New York, and New England, Charlotte will experience an impressive 80-83% partial eclipse. This means that observers in Charlotte will witness a dramatic scene similar to seeing a giant “bite” taken out of the sun, offering a unique perspective of this cosmic event.

Viewing the Eclipse Safely

To fully enjoy and safely view the solar eclipse, it’s crucial to use ISO-certified solar viewers. These specialized glasses provide the necessary protection for your eyes, ensuring a memorable and risk-free experience. Remember, regular sunglasses do not offer adequate protection for viewing the sun directly, so be sure to equip yourself with the right gear.

Weather Forecast for Optimal Viewing

Fortunately, the weather forecast for this afternoon in Charlotte promises mostly sunny to partly cloudy conditions. This means that sky gazers should have an excellent opportunity to witness the eclipse without any interference from cloud cover, enhancing the overall viewing experience. Click here to see Charlotte’s latest hourly weather forecast from WCNC.

FAQs About the Eclipse in Charlotte

Will it get darker during the eclipse?
While the eclipse will cover a significant portion of the sun, there will not be a noticeable change in the appearance of daylight in the Carolinas. Unlike the 2017 eclipse, where Charlotte experienced a 97-98% eclipse and a noticeable darkening, this year’s event will not result in such dramatic lighting changes.

When will Charlotte see a total solar eclipse next?
Charlotte will have to wait until May 2078 to be directly in the path of totality for a total solar eclipse. Until then, partial eclipses will offer glimpses of this cosmic phenomenon.

How often does Charlotte experience partial solar eclipses?
Partial solar eclipses occur once or twice a year globally. In the United States, they happen roughly every two to six years, with Charlotte experiencing a similar frequency. The next partial solar eclipses in Charlotte are expected in 2029 and 2031, although they will be less than 30% eclipsed.

As we eagerly await the 2024 solar eclipse, let’s remember to prioritize safety by using ISO-certified solar viewers and avoiding direct viewing of the sun without proper protection. With clear skies in the forecast, Charlotte residents and visitors are in for a celestial treat that will leave a lasting impression. So, grab your solar viewers, find a good spot, and prepare to witness the magic of the cosmos unfold before your eyes.