What is a solar eclipse?
A solar eclipse occurs when the moon passes between the sun and the earth, obstructing the sun from view. When this happens we can either see part of the sun covered (partial eclipse), an outside ring (annular eclipse) or just the sun's corona (total eclipse).
The moon casts a shadow on the earth during a solar eclipse. Those in the umbra can see a total eclipse while those in the penumbra will see a partial eclipse.
When and where will the solar eclipse be?
There will be an annular solar eclipse on Saturday, October 14th, 2023 and a total solar eclipse on Monday, April 8th, 2023. Eclipses happen about every 18 months in different parts of the world, and the next eclipse in North America will only be in 2044.
This image shows the path for the upcoming solar eclipses. Even though Atlanta will not be in the path of totality, we will still be able to see a partial eclipse!
How long does the eclipse last?
Solar Eclipse Science
Click below to watch a video about eclipses by an astronomer from Tellus Science Museum:
Tellus Science Museum website: tellusmuseum.org/explore/events/