On April 8, 2024, a total solar eclipse will cross the United States from Mexico to Canada. The path of totality will cross through 13 states, including Illinois.
Where in Illinois can I see the total solar eclipse?
The path of totality will enter Illinois in the southern part of the state, near Cairo. It will then cross through Carbondale, Marion, Benton, and Metropolis before exiting the state in the southeastern corner, near Shawnee National Forest.
What time will the solar eclipse happen in Illinois?
The start time indicated in this table refers to the maximum phase of the eclipse. In all of the following cities you will be able to observe this astronomical phenomenon in its entirety, that is, the sky will darken and become night.
| City | Totality Start | Duration* |
|---|---|---|
| Tamms | 1:58:48 PM CDT | 3:50 |
| Chester | 1:58:55 PM CDT | 3:25 |
| Alto Pass | 1:58:57 PM CDT | 4:09 |
| Cairo | 1:59:03 PM CDT | 3:07 |
| Murphysboro | 1:59:09 PM CDT | 4:06 |
| Makanda | 1:59:10 PM CDT | 4:08 |
| Carbondale | 1:59:16 PM CDT | 4:08 |
| Marion | 1:59:44 PM CDT | 4:07 |
| Benton | 2:00:03 PM CDT | 4:06 |
| Metropolis | 2:00:11 PM CDT | 2:33 |
| Harrisburg | 2:00:27 PM CDT | 3:53 |
| Mount Vernon | 2:00:35 PM CDT | 3:45 |
| Golconda | 2:00:39 PM CDT | 2:51 |
| McLeansboro | 2:00:43 PM CDT | 4:07 |
| Bluford | 2:00:46 PM CDT | 3:53 |
| Centralia | 2:00:58 PM CDT | 2:44 |
| Mill Shoals | 2:01:11 PM CDT | 4:07 |
| Fairfield | 2:01:19 PM CDT | 4:03 |
| Salem | 2:01:20 PM CDT | 2:47 |
| Carmi | 2:01:21 PM CDT | 4:01 |
| Albion | 2:01:45 PM CDT | 4:06 |
| Kinmundy | 2:01:51 PM CDT | 2:21 |
| Olney | 2:02:12 PM CDT | 3:50 |
| Mount Carmel | 2:02:16 PM CDT | 4:03 |
| Effingham | 2:03:26 PM CDT | 0:49 |
| Marshall | 2:04:04 PM CDT | 2:35 |
| Paris | 2:05:14 PM CDT | 0:41 |
ALSO READ. What does the Bible say about the April 8 eclipse? The most googled myths
What is a solar eclipse?
An annular solar eclipse occurs when the Moon is near its apogee, the farthest point in its orbit from the Earth. In this position, the Moon appears smaller in the sky than the Sun. As a result, when the Moon comes between the Earth and the Sun, it does not completely cover the solar disk, leaving a bright “ring of fire” visible.
Where is the next total solar eclipse visible?
The total eclipse will be visible in a 160-kilometer-wide strip that begins in Mexico, crosses the United States from west to east, and ends in Canada.
In Mexico, the totality of the eclipse can be seen in the following states: Sinaloa, Durango, Nuevo León, and Coahuila.
In the United States, the path of the eclipse will pass through the states of Texas, Oklahoma, Arkansas, Missouri, Illinois, Kentucky, Tennessee, Indiana, Ohio, Pennsylvania, New York, Vermont, New Hampshire, and Maine.
In Canada, the total eclipse can be seen in the provinces of New Brunswick, Nova Scotia, and Prince Edward Island.
Eclipse Glasses
Eye safety during a solar eclipse is a primary concern, as looking directly at the sun can result in solar retinopathy. These glasses comply with the ISO 12312-2 standard, which ensures safe observation of the astronomical event.
To safely enjoy the April 8th eclipse, it is IMPORTANT to use certified solar eclipse glasses or suitable projection devices to protect your eyes. Additionally, it’s important to remember that many myths about the health effects of eclipses lack scientific basis and should not cause unnecessary concern.
The Sun emits a significant amount of ultraviolet (UV) and infrared (IR) radiation, which can damage the retina of the eye. The visible light from the Sun can also be harmful if looked at directly for an extended period.
While the excitement for an astronomical phenomenon is understandable, it’s essential to consider the necessary precautions to enjoy the eclipse without risking eye health.
