2024 Solar Eclipse on April 8th – Things to know

April 2024

The talk of the town currently is about the upcoming solar eclipse on Monday April 8th, 2024. Millions of residents are planning on watching it. Some airlines are operating special flights (from Texas to Detroit) during the eclipse to facilitate incredible viewing of the eclipse.

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Timing
In Michigan, a partial eclipse will start around 2 p.m. The exact time depends on the city. You can search here. The eclipse will reach maximum coverage generally between 3:10 and 3:15 p.m.

According to NASA here are the specific timings for some cities:
Monroe 3:13 pm 99.9%, Detroit 3:14 pm 99.2%, Livonia 3:13 pm 98.9%
Ann Arbor 3:13 pm 98.7%



Western and Northern regions of the State will see a lesser percentage of totality coverage. Here is the interactive tool published by NASA. Click here for NASA tool. You can see the impact in your city. Note that the 100% band borders at Toledo, Ohio. Places like Cleveland , Ohio and Indianapolis, Indiana will experience 100% totality. A number of Michigan residents are driving to Ohio to experience total solar eclipse.

Warnings
Scientists and physicians warn not to look at the eclipse with naked eyes. Eclipse glasses are designed to screen out 99.99 percent of the light, about a thousand times the blockage of standard sunglasses. These eclipse glasses are available at various stores. You have to wear eclipse glasses at all times when any part of the sun is visible. But there is an exception: Do not wear eclipse glasses during the brief period of “totality,” when the sun’s face is completely blocked by the moon, leaving only the glowing solar corona. Failure to adhere to these instructions may result in serious damage to your eyes. Don’t let kids be outside without adult supervision. So if any part of the sun is visible during the eclipse you must wear the eclipse glasses.

Unusual things may occur
• It will feel like night time due to darkness.
• It may get windy
• Animal behavior may not be normal during the eclipse.
• Sun’s light can cast some pretty cool shadows on Earth. Light that filters through the leaves of trees has been observed to leave crescent-shaped shadows as eclipse totality closes in. Look for it.
• Radio interference is also possible.

Hindu traditions
In India, eclipses are always treated as a time to be cautious spiritually and otherwise. Hindu temples are closed around the eclipse time. Many temples perform purification services after the eclipse. Take a look at  Detroit area temples for modified hours and special activities.

Other traditions:
• Do not eat during the eclipse
• Shower after the eclipse
• Pregnant woman should stay indoors
• Meditate and pray to seek protection from negative energies during the eclipse

Enjoy the eclipse safely!