Washington – Tens of millions of people across Mexico, the US, and Canada witnessed a celestial spectacle like no other as they experienced a total solar eclipse. The path of totality, stretching 155 miles wide and over 4,000 miles long, captivated onlookers as the Moon passed between the Earth and the Sun, momentarily blanketing the day with darkness.
The eclipse commenced in Mazatlán, Mexico, as the Moon’s shadow slowly crept across the Sun, eventually engulfing it in darkness, save for the ethereal glow of the corona. In Dallas, Texas, 11-year-old Ady Walton-King eagerly awaited the event with her family, describing the experience as the Texas afternoon turning unexpectedly dark, resembling the Moon “biting” the Sun without leaving any teeth marks.
As the eclipse continued its journey northeast through the United States, various communities marked the occasion uniquely. In Russellville, Arkansas, hundreds of couples partook in mass wedding events, exchanging vows beneath the darkened sky. Amateur astronomer Darcy Howard in Ellsinore, Missouri, marveled at the eclipse, noting the eerie twilight and dazzling corona on display.
From Ohio to New York, cities not in the path of totality still witnessed rare and captivating glimpses of the eclipse. In Niagara Falls, crowds marveled as clouds momentarily parted, revealing the awe-inspiring sight of the black-hole Sun. In Montreal, a gathering of 20,000 people on McGill University’s campus erupted into cheers as totality approached, leaving a lasting impression on all in attendance.
As the eclipse made its final stop on Fogo Island, Newfoundland, Bethany Downery of the European Space Agency relished the view from the Fogo Island Inn, recounting the miraculous parting of clouds to catch a glimpse of near totality. The day concluded with a sense of collective wonder and celebration, leaving lasting memories for those fortunate enough to witness the rare celestial event.
Reflecting on the experience, Ady Walton-King in Dallas expressed her determination to witness the next total eclipse in North America in 2044, aspiring to become a scientist by then. The eclipse not only captivated millions but also left a profound impact on individuals across the continent, highlighting the awe-inspiring beauty and grandeur of the universe.