The moon took over the light of the sun as the earth darkened. This year, in 2024, we had an interstellar solar eclipse. The 2024 total solar eclipse was a major event. Totality could last twice as long as in 2017, depending on the observer’s location. It was the longest totality on land for over a decade, so eclipse-chasers worldwide flocked to the path of totality.
A solar eclipse occurs when the moon passes between the Earth and the sun, casting a shadow on Earth that either fully or partially blocks the sun’s light in some areas. This only happens occasionally because the moon doesn’t orbit in the same plane as the sun and Earth do. Dr. Mary Markham, an 8th-grade science teacher here at Bowling Green Junior High School, said, “A solar eclipse happens during the day, and it is when the moon blocks out the sunlight. A lunar eclipse happens at night, and it is when the Earth blocks sunlight from shining on the moon.” There will be several partial solar eclipses that will happen in the next ten years. However, it will take over 100 years until the next total solar eclipse happens here in Bowling Green, KY. A solar eclipse is a very wonderful event. After the total solar eclipse on April 8, 2024, the next total solar eclipse that can be seen from the contiguous United States will happen in 20 years, which will be on Aug. 23, 2044.
From the silent pause in bird songs to the sudden closure of flowers, the impact of a solar eclipse on the natural world stretches far beyond the momentary darkening of the sky. In response, animals, both domesticated and wild, exhibit behavioral changes, including increased anxiety levels. Many animals mistake the sudden darkness for nighttime and adjust their behavior accordingly. I asked 6th-grade teacher Ms. Cary to imagine if a solar eclipse could happen on other planets with moons. How might the experience of an eclipse differ on another planet compared to Earth? She said, “A straightforward experiment would be to get a colander from your kitchen (what you use to strain the water from spaghetti noodles) and allow the sun’s light to shine through the holes. As the moon crosses into the sun’s light, you will be able to see the light coming through the holes of the colander turn into crescents. This will answer how the moon crossing in front of the Sun changes the refraction of the Sun’s light”. One way people were impacted by the solar eclipse was that they had to wear the solar eclipse glasses or they were going to get billed by staring at the solar eclipse with the glasses. solar eclipse dramatically affects nature, evidenced by changes in bird behavior and flower movements. These changes go beyond the brief period of darkness, indicating a significant environmental impact. The phenomenon influences various aspects of the natural world, altering the usual patterns of wildlife and plant life.
Solar eclipses carry with them a myriad of intriguing aspects, yet preferences vary widely among individuals. While conducting research might be the high point for some during a solar eclipse, others may find the sheer flawlessness of the event to be the most captivating aspect. Tierra Nelson shared her thoughts, stating, “I find it mesmerizing when the sky darkens during a total solar eclipse.” Reflecting on her initial encounter with a solar eclipse, she remarked, “Experiencing a solar eclipse for the first time in kindergarten was a bit wild but also amazing. “The experience of observing a solar eclipse can be both enjoyable and enriching. Despite this, some parents hesitate to let their children observe solar eclipses outdoors due to the risk of eye damage from direct sun exposure, which can occur in less than 10 seconds. Yet, many argue that solar eclipses offer a valuable learning opportunity about the Moon, the Sun, and various celestial bodies. In the recent past, specifically in 2024, a notable solar eclipse occurred, following another significant eclipse in 2017. This marked a seven-year interval before we witnessed such an event. It’s noteworthy that we’ll be waiting another 20 years for the next total solar eclipse. However, there’s a silver lining with the promise of several partial solar eclipses in the not-too-distant future, keeping the excitement alive for enthusiasts.
To wrap it up, as the solar eclipse draws to a close, we are reminded of the incredible phenomena that nature presents to us. This celestial event, where the moon passes directly between the Earth and the Sun, briefly turning day into night, serves as a powerful reminder of the wonders of our universe. It’s a phenomenon that not only captivates our imagination but also brings together people from all around the world in a moment of shared awe and curiosity. Until the next eclipse, let’s hold onto the sense of wonder and unity it has inspired in us all.
