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If you live in Illinois or plan on visiting for the upcoming total solar eclipse on April 8, 2024, here are some key fun facts:
- Eclipse Hotspot: Southern Illinois, particularly Carbondale, was a hotspot during the 2017 eclipse. Known as the “Eclipse Crossroads of America,” it continues to be a significant location in 2024 and is situated on the center-line of the path of totality.
- Timing of Totality: The total solar eclipse in Illinois is set to begin on April 8, 2024, around 1:58 pm CDT and conclude around 2:07 pm CDT.
- Duration in Carbondale: Although the point of greatest duration for the 2024 eclipse is in Mexico, Carbondale will experience an impressive 4 minutes and 9 seconds of totality, nearly double the duration it saw in 2017. It’s also just 19 seconds short of the eclipse maximum in the U.S.
- Overlapping Totality: The region around Makanda, where the centerlines of the 2017 and 2024 eclipses meet, creates a zone of overlapping totality spanning parts of Missouri, Illinois, and Kentucky. It is indeed possible for someone to see the two total solar eclipses (2017 & 2024) from the exact same viewing spot.
- Shawnee National Forest: The entire Shawnee National Forest is within the path of totality, with the centerline running through it, making it an excellent location for eclipse viewing.
Remember to prioritize safety by using certified eclipse glasses and cherish the beauty of this extraordinary event. Happy eclipse watching!
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Important
Never look directly at the sun without proper eye protection.
Looking directly at the sun, even during a solar eclipse, can cause permanent eye damage or blindness. Always use specially designed solar viewing glasses or viewers that meet international safety standards. Regular sunglasses, homemade filters, or improvised solutions are not safe for solar viewing.
Remember to prioritize safety during eclipse viewing. Provide certified solar viewing glasses for all participants, and encourage everyone to enjoy the event responsibly.
Additional Resources & Links:
April 8th, 2024 Total Solar Eclipse
Eclipse Glasses & Eye Safety (Best Solar Eclipse Glasses 2024)
Handheld Solar Viewers
Solar Filters for Telescopes & Binoculars
Solar Filters for Cameras & Smartphones
Solar Optical Projectors
2024 Eclipse Gifts & Apparel