In just two short years, the Miami Valley will be part of a once-in-a-lifetime sky event, a total solar eclipse! We already enjoyed the Great American Eclipse a few years ago but on April 8, 2024, this eclipse will be even more impressive.
>>Mark your calendars: Total solar eclipse coming in 2024
In 2024, most of the Miami Valley will be in the path of totality which means we will experience complete darkness for about 2 minutes and 43 seconds. In Dayton, the total eclipse will begin around 3:09 p.m. and will end around 3:12 p.m. Many people will flock to our area to enjoy this rare event!
>>Photos: 2020 Total solar eclipse wows skygazers in Latin America
A total solar eclipse can occur when the moon is in a new moon phase, when the sun, moon, and Earth line up almost perfectly, and when the moon is closest to Earth during its orbit aka perigee.
Remember, you can’t look directly at the sun because it could cause eye damage. Instead, you will need special eclipse glasses or welder’s glasses rated 14 or higher for safe viewing.