A Ring around the Sun

I was fortunate enough to experience the Total Solar Eclipse of 2017 in Tennessee with many friends. It took place in the middle of a hot August day. As the sunlight was blocked by the moon, the air became noticeable cooler, a wind picked up because of the sudden change of temperature. Nightime insects started making noise and if you've ever been down south on a summer night, you know they can be loud. The sky was getting darker and stars could be seen.

It lasted only a few minutes, but it felt like hours. The 15 or so people with me were silent, in awe and wonder. There was a beautiful light ring around the moon called the corona. When totality passed, it took a moment, but we all started to cheer. It was an amazing experience and we all vowed to come together again in Burlington, VT for the 2024 Total Solar Eclipse.

Well, life happens and many of those folks will not even be in the US for this year's eclipse. I'll be experiencing it with my father in the town of his birth. It seems fitting as he is the one who introduced me to the wonders of astronomy in the first place. 

Consider that the 2024 Total Solar Eclipse may be the experience that inspires your students to learn more about their place in the universe.

Prepare your students to understand this spectacular event. Encourage them to witness the Total Solar Eclipse with their families on April 8, 2024! Great American Eclipse