The 2024 total solar eclipse is set to darken the skies over North America on April 8, offering a breathtaking celestial spectacle.

Everyone across North and Central America will get a glimpse of at least a partial eclipse.

Lucky observers within a specific path, spanning 15 U.S. states, Mexico, and Canada, will experience the stunning totality as the moon fully obscures the sun's disk.

Understanding the different types of solar eclipses is key. A total solar eclipse, like the one on April 8, happens when the moon snugly fits over the sun's face, completely blocking it out.

At other times, when the moon's orbit places it farther from Earth, it appears smaller, resulting in an annular solar eclipse.

In this scenario, a thin ring of the sun remains visible around the moon's silhouette.

Lastly, a partial solar eclipse occurs when the alignment of the Earth, moon, and sun isn't perfect, causing the moon to cover only a portion of the sun.

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Stages to Total Eclipse on April 8, 2024

On April 8, 2024, the moon will be in its new moon phase, appearing relatively large and capable of fully covering the sun's disk as viewed from within the narrow path of totality.

This event's magnitude, measuring the fraction of the sun's diameter covered by the moon, will be 1.0566, slightly exceeding complete coverage.

NASA has provided an interactive map for eclipse enthusiasts to track the totality's journey across the globe.

However, various factors, including location and timing, will influence how the total solar eclipse unfolds.

Here's what to expect during the stages of the 2024 total solar eclipse:

First Contact

The moon will begin its journey across the sun's face, initiating a partial solar eclipse.

At this stage, the moon's shadow will eat away at the sun's top half, creating a mesmerizing sight.

This phase will kick off near Pu‘uali‘i, Hawaii, at 6:27 a.m. local time (12:27 p.m. EDT, 1627 GMT).

Second Contact

As the partial eclipse progresses, a remarkable phenomenon known as the "diamond ring effect" will occur, marking the onset of totality.

This breathtaking moment will be witnessed as the total solar eclipse makes its landfall at Mazatlán, Sinaloa, Mexico, at 9:51 a.m. local time (12:51 p.m. EDT, 16:51 GMT).

Totality

The pinnacle of the eclipse experience, totality, will commence as the moon completely obscures the sun's disk.

Observers within the path of totality will be treated to an awe-inspiring spectacle, with the sun's corona and inner atmosphere becoming visible.

Stars and planets typically unseen during daylight hours may also make an appearance. 

The first location to experience totality will be Mazatlán, Sinaloa, Mexico, at 11:07 a.m. local time (2:07 p.m. EDT, 1807 GMT), followed by locations in the U.S. and Canada.

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Stages After Total Eclipse 

Following the total solar eclipse on April 8th, observers can anticipate the gradual recession of the moon after fully eclipsing the sun.

This remarkable celestial event unfolds as the moon's shadow retreats, allowing the sun's brilliance to once again illuminate the sky. It marks the conclusion of celestial event. Here are the receding stages to expect on April 8th:

Third Contact

Following totality, the moon will gradually move away from the sun, marking the end of the eclipse's totality phase.

This stage will mirror the second contact, offering observers another opportunity to witness phenomena like Baily's Beads and shadow bands.

Fourth Contact

The moon will complete its journey across the sun's face, signifying the end of the total solar eclipse.

At this stage, the eclipse's spellbinding display will conclude, leaving skywatchers with lasting memories of this celestial marvel.

Which Cities Will Experience Eclipse April 8th 2024?

According to NASA these USA cities will experience a total solar eclipse:

• Texas

• Oklahoma

• Arkansas

• Missouri

• Illinois

• Kentucky

• Indiana

• Ohio

• Pennsylvania

• New York

• Vermont

• New Hampshire

• Maine

Totality will also be experienced in parts of Tennessee and Michigan. 

In Africa and Europe, the April 8th eclipse will occur after sundown and wont be visible. 

For those planning to witness any of these stages, safety is paramount. 

Viewing the sun without proper protection can cause severe eye damage, so it's essential to use specialized eclipse glasses or solar filters. 

Telescopes also require appropriate filters for safe solar observation.