STORY BY MATTHEW DENICOLA
PHOTO FROM REUTERS
North America is gearing up to witness the sun in a new way with a solar eclipse set to occur at 10 a.m. PST on April 8, 2024.
The last solar eclipse in North America took place on March 9, 2016. During that celestial event, the Moon completely obscured the Sun, casting a shadow upon Earth and creating a mesmerizing spectacle for skywatchers.
Solar eclipses have been known to capture human imagination. Ancient civilizations perceived them as omens or divine messages and early astronomers, including the Greeks, sought to understand their patterns. Today, they’re studied for scientific insights, reminding humanity of the vastness and beauty of the cosmos.
Students at Cypress College are expressing their anticipation for this upcoming solar eclipse and pondering what might occur on Monday.
Devin Mann, a geography major said, “I think it’s a cool [and] rare event happening on that day. The last time we had a solar eclipse was seven years ago when I was still in middle school,” he continued, “It’s even cooler now because I’m a geography major, so I can study it and look forward to observing the Sun.”
Scientific discoveries regarding solar eclipses have enhanced the understanding of celestial mechanics and astrophysics. Observations have confirmed Einstein’s theory of general relativity, demonstrated by the bending of starlight during eclipses, and revealed insights into the Sun’s corona and magnetic fields.
To prepare for the solar eclipse, individuals should acquire certified solar viewing glasses to protect their eyes. Additionally, they should gather necessary equipment such as telescopes or binoculars with solar filters. It is crucial to plan the viewing location away from city lights and to check weather forecasts for clear skies.
Some Cypress College students are eagerly anticipating their first-ever solar eclipse.
Isaiah Ceresco, a Kinesiology major said, “This is the first time I’m going to see a solar eclipse because I don’t remember the last one. At the time, I will be at home, looking from the balcony with my solar eclipse glasses so I won’t damage my eyesight.”
Prime locations for viewing the solar eclipse include open spaces with unobstructed views such as deserts like Joshua Tree National Park or Anza-Borrego Desert State Park. Coastal areas like Malibu or San Diego also offer picturesque settings for observing this celestial event.
Astronomy Professor Michael Frey is organizing a watch party for the upcoming event. He plans to set up several telescopes on Monday morning from 10 a.m. to 12 p.m. to observe the solar eclipse. Additionally, he will provide various lenses for the telescopes to offer different viewing experiences.
This Monday, California will be witnessing only a partial solar eclipse. If you’re unable to view it this year, the next opportunity will cross the nation in two decades. Understanding these factors adds depth to the anticipation and appreciation of such natural wonders.
As anticipation mounts and preparations are made, Cypress College students eagerly await the possible transformative experience of witnessing the solar eclipse.
