2024 Total Solar Eclipse: Key stats revealed

Millions of sky gazers anticipate a remarkable celestial phenomenon as a total solar eclipse sweeps across North America on April 8, 2024, extending from Mexico through the United States to Canada.

During a total solar eclipse, the Moon moves directly between the Sun and Earth, completely blocking the Sun's surface and casting a shadow on the Earth below. As a result, the sky becomes dark. The path of totality, where the eclipse is fully visible, presents prime viewing locations for experiencing the complete spectacle. During a partial solar eclipse, areas outside the path of totality will witness a noticeable change in daylight, although not complete darkness. The sky will appear dimmer than usual, depending on the extent of the Moon's obstruction of the Sun.

Here are some key statistics about the upcoming eclipse as outlined on NASA's website:

1. Duration of totality: The longest duration of totality, lasting 4 minutes and 28 seconds, will be near Torreón, Mexico. In Texas, totality will be up to 4 minutes and 26 seconds, and in some areas like Economy, Indiana, it will extend over 4 minutes. As the eclipse enters Canada, it will last up to 3 minutes and 21 seconds. Along the eclipse's centerline, most areas can expect totality durations between 3.5 and 4 minutes.