Americans will be able to see a total solar eclipse in 2017

This will be for the first time when US residents will get to see a total solar eclipse since 1979. Total eclipses are technically “a fluke of celestial mechanics and time”, adds Space.com, because right now the moon, which is gradually moving away from Earth, happens to be the flawless distance to appear equal in size to the Sunday. All across the country, from Oregon to South Carolina, Americans will be able to see the spectacle from their own backyards. That’s when all of North America will get a once-in-a-lifetime glimpse at a total solar eclipse. “The quality of light is stupendous with an incredible light show of iridescence, scintillation, and delicate colors”.

Moreover, it is widely known that an eclipse is a natural phenomenon, however, in both ancient and modern cultures, some associate it with the supernatural or call it a bad omen.

A solar eclipse is when the moon passes in front of the sun, casting a shadow over a narrow path on Earth. Therefore, the umbra is an area of complete shadow formed via the total obstruction of sunlight by the moon.

On August 21st, 2017, Americans will be treated to a total solar eclipse.

They have made the effort to position themselves in Ellesmere Island in Nunavut, Canada in 2008; Easter Island in the Remote Pacific in 2010; and the far northern Svalbard Islands of Norway this year.

Astronomers warn eclipse watchers, whether using binoculars, telescopes or just the naked eye, to never stare directly at the sun without special precautions such as using special filters. However, only a few major cities will be in the “path of totality”, including Nashville, Lincoln, St. Louis and Kansas City among those who will be getting the best view of a rare phenomenon.

Do not forget to mark you calendars for August. 21, 2017.