(NewsNation) — Join NewsNation in viewing the solar eclipse as it crosses North America from Texas to Maine, the last eclipse visible from the continental United States for 20 years.
The 2024 solar eclipse is expected to be an economic boon for areas in the path of totality as tourists flock to towns across America to view the phenomenon. The next solar eclipse visible from North America won’t be until 2044, making this a rare opportunity.
For those viewing in person, don’t forget your eclipse glasses and be on the lookout for fakes. For those outside the path of totality, NewsNation will be following the eclipse in the path across the U.S.
Stared into the sun?
If you viewed the eclipse without safety glasses, you may be wondering if you’ve damaged your eyes. Here are the signs to look for.
Will the solar eclipse affect your plants?
NASA is hoping to use the April 8 eclipse to research what impact the phenomenon has on plant life.
What is the pinhole effect?
Those without eclipse glasses can take advantage of the pinhole effect to safely see the solar eclipse. A viewer made of cardboard or even looking at shadows cast by light coming through the branches of trees will show the crescent of the uncovered sun. Max Algrim, an insurance agent in Chicago whose mother is a science teacher explains the technique.
Eclipse viewers gather in downtown Chicago
The city is out of the path of totality but the eclipse was still visible.
Eclipse weddings
Some are taking advantage of the rare occasion to tie the knot, with hundreds of couples holding eclipse weddings.
The end of the world as we know it?
Myths and legends from many cultures have explanations for the eclipse, including ones that foretell the end of the world.
Tourist flock to path of totality
Hotels and vacation rentals are booked up for the total solar eclipse as people travel long distances to watch.
Be wary of fake eclipse glasses
You need eye protection to view the eclipse but don’t fall for fake eclipse glasses.
Del Rio goes dark
Del Rio, Texas is one of the first areas in the U.S. to experience the eclipse. The temperature dropped four degrees as the sun’s light disappeared.
Texas prepares for solar eclipse
#solareclipse2024 pic.twitter.com/CNXVZnUEEo
— Ali Bradley (@AliBradleyTV) April 8, 2024
Ali Bradley reports from Del Rio, Texas
Eclipse emergency?
Some communities in the path of the totality declared preemptive states of emergency to prepare for an influx of eclipse tourists.
Eclipse viewers pack Indy Speedway
Brooke Shafer reports
Can you use sunglasses to view the solar eclipse?
It’s important not to stare directly into the sun during an eclipse, but are eclipse glasses really necessary or will your sunglasses suffice?
What if I’m not in the path of totality?
Only areas within the path will experience total darkness as the sun is blocked out. For those elsewhere, light will still show and experts say eclipse viewing is all or nothing.
What’s the weather in the path of totality?
Weather conditions make a big difference when it comes to viewing the total solar eclipse, with clear skies offering the best visibility. See the weather forecast in the path of totality.