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Asheville -- A total solar eclipse will cross North America on April 8, 2024, covering the US, Canada,
and Mexico with its shadow, providing a celestial show for the North American sky.
For those fortunate enough to be in the right place at the right time, it will be a moment of awe-inspiring wonder as the Moon passes between the Earth and the Sun, obscuring the solar disc and plunging the landscape into an eerie twilight. This phenomenon, known as a total solar eclipse, is a rare event that captivates millions with its breathtaking beauty and cosmic dance.
When the Moon and Earth are in perfect alignment, the Moon's shadow will sweep across Earth in a narrow path called the umbra, causing a complete solar eclipse. The sky grows darker, like the beginning of morning or dusk, as the Moon's silhouette moves across the face of the Sun.
Asheville, North Carolina, won't fall within the path of totality during the Great North American Eclipse, however, it will still offer a remarkable celestial show. As the Moon covers approximately 85% of the Sun's apparent diameter, residents and visitors alike can witness a partial solar eclipse, a sight not to be missed.
However, enjoying such a spectacle requires caution and preparation. Safety is extremely important when viewing a solar eclipse to protect your eyes from the Sun's intense rays. Specialized eye protection, designed explicitly for solar viewing, is essential. Sunglasses are not sufficient and should not be used as a substitute. Eclipse glasses or solar viewers are available and should be used to safeguard your vision during the event.
The partial solar eclipse as observed from Asheville will unfold over approximately two-and-a-half hours, beginning at 1:51 PM on April 8th with the first contact of the Moon's silhouette touching the edge of the Sun. The eclipse will reach its maximum coverage at 3:09 PM, with only a slender crescent of the Sun visible against the backdrop of the Moon's shadow, before gradually receding until its conclusion at 4:24 PM.
For those seeking prime viewing locations around Asheville, several options promise an unforgettable experience. Park Square Park, located downtown, offers convenient front-row seats to witness the partial solar eclipse. Alternatively, venturing further afield presents opportunities for an even more immersive encounter with the celestial phenomenon. Along the Blue Ridge Parkway, Mount Pisgah Trailhead beckons with its panoramic view, providing a vantage point to observe the eclipse.
For the adventurous souls willing to journey higher, the summit of Clingmans' Dome in the Great Smoky Mountains promises an unparalleled vista. Here, at an elevation of over 6,600 feet, observers can witness a partial eclipse with obscuration approaching 90%, offering a glimpse into the captivating dance of celestial bodies.
As the Eclipse approaches, it's essential to prepare accordingly and ensure a safe and enjoyable viewing experience. Familiarize yourself with the proper precautions for solar viewing, be sure to have the necessary eye protection, and plan your eclipse adventure to make the most of this rare celestial event.
Get ready for this amazing experience! Be safe and enjoy!
WNCTimes
Image Credit: WNCTimes
