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Once the entire eclipse is complete, the moon will completely cover the sun during the rare total solar eclipse.

When spring break concludes, Walsh Jesuit will witness a celestial phenomenon unseen in Ohio since 1806. On April 8, 2024, the day will become like night when a total solar eclipse places Cleveland and Akron directly under the moon’s shadow, offering a rare reminder that we are part of something beyond our planet.

This event marks a significant moment in Ohio’s astronomical history, not to be repeated until 2099. This makes it a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity for many. The path of totality, where the moon fully covers the sun, will envelop the region in darkness for several minutes, offering a twilight experience in the middle of the day.

“Being in the line of totality means experiencing the full majesty of the eclipse. For a brief moment, day turns to night, temperatures drop, and stars might peek out. This is going to be an exceptionally memorable experience,” explains astronomy teacher Ms. Burley.

The eclipse is set to begin its partial phase around 1:59 pm in Cleveland, reaching totality by 3:15 pm. This period of complete coverage will last approximately 3 minutes and 50 seconds, a fleeting yet profound experience, ending the partial phase at 4:29 pm. Akron’s viewers can expect a similarly spectacular show, with totality occurring slightly later and lasting for 2 minutes and 49 seconds.

Junior Nico Pascarella already imagines the day, “Standing under the sky as it darkens at 3:15, knowing that for those few minutes, we’re sharing in something extraordinary—it’s mind-blowing and so cool to live through.”

While exciting, the event also comes with a note of caution from local authorities. The expected influx of eclipse enthusiasts from out of town has prompted concerns about traffic congestion and public safety. Summit County and the City of Hudson advise residents and visitors to plan their eclipse day with these considerations in mind, ensuring that everyone can enjoy the event safely and without undue stress. Local authorities suggest trying to stay home.

Isabelle Mastromatteo, looking forward to her first total eclipse, reflects on the significance of the event, “It’s not just about the darkness or seeing the corona; it’s about being part of a moment that connects us all, across time and space. Knowing the exact times and being prepared means we won’t miss a second of this incredible experience.”

While the excitement builds, the community is also reminded of the importance of safety. Viewing a solar eclipse requires proper protection to prevent eye damage. Observers are encouraged to use ISO-certified eclipse glasses during the partial phases of the eclipse. The only safe time to view the eclipse without protection is during the brief period of totality.

Safe Viewing Tips for the 2024 Solar Eclipse

1. ISO-Certified Eclipse Glasses. Make sure your glasses meet safety standards to protect your eyes. You can find many options on Amazon.
2. Pinhole Projectors are a safe way to view the eclipse indirectly. Here are some directions!
3. Solar Filters. These are necessary for those using telescopes, binoculars, or cameras to view or capture the eclipse. Here is more information.
4. AVOID Regular Sunglasses: They do NOT offer adequate protection against the sun’s rays and could lead to eye injury.
5. Live Streams. Consider watching the eclipse through live streams offered by reputable organizations like this one from NASA for a safe viewing experience.

As April 8 approaches, Walsh Jesuit is ready to share in a global moment of wonder. The total solar eclipse, with its exact timings and the fortune of being in the line of totality, presents a cool educational opportunity and a chance to witness the beauty of the universe. This is astronomy in action!