ON APRIL 8, 2024, we in the Lower 48 will be treated to another total solar eclipse. The band of totality begins in Texas, travels north through Missouri and ends in New England, a truly long snake of suspense. This is the second time in seven years that the continental United States will be treated to one of the most spectacular sights humans can witness.

2017

Almost seven years ago, I overnighted in Springfield, Illinois and then sped downstate to Carbondale to watch my first-ever total solar eclipse. I thought I knew what to expect, but the actual experience is so much better than dreamy imagination. As the eclipse approached, my strategy involved making two or three motel reservations near the total eclipse path. I then waited and watched the weather. Within 72 hours of the event, the weather forecast sharpened and I made my bet on Carbondale. I cancelled the other motel reservations and stuck with the one I had at a seedy little motel on the south end of Springfield.

I left in the early hours of Aug. 21 and landed in a Denny’s parking lot in Carbondale. I decided it was the perfect place to watch the eclipse. I spent the morning eating at Denny’s (meh) and prepping for the early afternoon event.

Finally, the moment to totality drew close. I videotaped on my iPhone. You can watch it here: https://www.dropbox.com/scl/fi/c8yakyqs3nklp3jfa33a2/Aug-2017-Total-Eclipse-from-Carbondale-ILL.MOV?rlkey=h88tg6y6eh8cq9fqlx9mgwnmc&dl=0

2024

April 8 will approach like a Japanese bullet train; As of Dec. 26, it’s only 107 days away. Do what you have to do so you can stand underneath the total eclipse. There are sun-safe goggles you can purchase from reputable astronomy companies. You’ll you need those on your nose right up to the moment the moon completely covers the sun. When the total eclipse begins, take them off and behold. It’s easy to understand why the ancients thought it was all ending.

Here’s a map of the eclipse path. You can click on any spot along the path of totality to find out when it starts and stops. If all goes well, I’ll see you under the shadow. https://www.timeanddate.com/eclipse/map/2024-april-8

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