A rare and spectacular event took place on Monday afternoon, captivating millions of people across the United States. Lucky residents in southern Illinois and central Indiana were treated to a once-in-a-lifetime spectacle as a total solar eclipse swept across the country.
While the rest of the country experienced a partial eclipse, with 94% sun coverage in the Chicago area, the lucky few who were in the path of totality were able to witness a truly awe-inspiring sight. Here’s a recap of how the day unfolded and the latest news you need to know.
At 3:55 p.m., many people were left wondering what to do with their eclipse glasses now that the event was over. Luckily, there are a few options. Glasses can be donated to the non-profit organization Astronomers Without Borders, which collects used glasses for distribution to people in other parts of the world who may not have the opportunity to safely view an eclipse otherwise. Other options for donating or recycling glasses are also available.
For those who missed the total eclipse, there is no need to worry. You can still experience the magic of the event through photos and videos. The National Weather Service shared a satellite map showing the moon’s shadow moving across the United States, giving us a glimpse of what it looked like during totality. Additionally, NBC 5 Storm Team Meteorologist Pete Sack’s emotional reaction to the eclipse going into totality perfectly captured the awe and wonder of the moment.
But when will Illinois see its next total eclipse? Unfortunately, we’ll have to wait a really, really long time. According to NASA, the next total solar eclipse visible in Illinois won’t occur until September 14, 2099. That’s over 75 years from now, so it truly was a once-in-a-lifetime event for those who were lucky enough to witness it.
It’s important to note that viewing a solar eclipse without proper eye protection can be extremely dangerous. The Adler Planetarium warns that irreversible eye damage can occur within seconds, and your eyes lack the nerve endings to register pain as it’s happening. Regular sunglasses are not safe for viewing the eclipse, so it’s crucial to have proper eclipse glasses or a pinhole projector to safely view the event.
For those who weren’t able to get their hands on approved eclipse glasses, there is still a way to safely view the partial eclipse. With a large cardboard box and a few other supplies, you can create your own pinhole projector and experience the eclipse in a unique way.
Wondering what time the eclipse will take place in your area? We’ve got you covered with a handy guide to eclipse start and end times in Illinois. Totality will begin just before 2 p.m. and will last for three to four minutes in the southern portions of the state.
If you’re planning on driving during the eclipse, the Federal Highway Administration has some tips to help you stay safe. They recommend turning on your headlights during totality and even during partial eclipses to maximize visibility. It’s also important to avoid stopping on highways or parking on shoulders during the event.
For those in the Chicago area, the forecast for the eclipse is looking ideal. Skies are expected to be mostly clear, allowing for a great view of the partial eclipse. However, temperatures will also be quite warm, with highs in the 70s. In other parts of the country, there may be some high clouds during the afternoon hours, but overall, the weather should cooperate for a memorable eclipse experience.
In conclusion, the total solar eclipse was a once-in-a-lifetime event that captivated millions of people across the United States. While only a lucky few were able to experience totality, the rest of the country still got to witness a partial eclipse, making it a truly unforgettable day. Remember to properly dispose of your eclipse glasses and stay safe during future eclipses. And who knows, maybe you’ll get the chance to witness the next total solar eclipse in 2099.
