Alt text:
A partial eclipse is like a cool sunset. A total eclipse is like someone broke the sky.
this post was submitted on 02 Apr 2024
595 points (99.7% liked)
xkcd
8582 readers
213 users here now
A community for a webcomic of romance, sarcasm, math, and language.
founded 1 year ago
MODERATORS
you are viewing a single comment's thread
view the rest of the comments
view the rest of the comments
Now I looked up the next total eclipse in europe. Spain 12 August 2026 here I come!
Btw, is a total eclipse that different from an annular eclipse? Anybody got tips on what to do?
If you are in the path of totality, go find a spot early on and just kind of hang out - bring snacks and water and a book. If you aren't familiar with the area, download a map on your phone because the cell network might be slammed with people. Don't look at the sun without solar glasses until totality. The moon takes a while to move in front of the sun and the light level gradually drops, but you won't notice it until probably 90% of the sun is covered. Once totality occurs, you can look at the eclipse with the naked eye.
It is beautiful and indescribable and I was profoundly moved when I watched the 2017 eclipse. I will watch the upcoming one, provided the clouds don't cover it.
Once the eclipse is over, prepare to wait for traffic. It might be a while to get out because so many people go to such a small area.