The April 8, 2024, solar eclipse is a total solar eclipse that will pass over Mexico, the United States, and Canada. The moon will move in front of the sun for approximately 4 minutes. The duration of the April 8, 2024, solar eclipse is indeed quite long, with a maximum duration of totality of 4 minutes and 28.2 seconds in north central Mexico. Sky-gazers across North America are in for a treat. The path of totality can be widely viewed on available solar eclipse maps. The duration of an eclipse can vary depending on your location within the path of totality. For instance, most places along the center-line for the 2024 eclipse will see a totality duration between 3.5 and 4 minutes.
Comparatively, the August 21, 2017, solar eclipse, dubbed the “Great American Eclipse,” was also a total solar eclipse. It was visible within a band that spanned the contiguous United States from the Pacific to the Atlantic coasts. This was the first total solar eclipse visible in the contiguous United States in 38 years. The path of totality touched 14 states, and the rest of the U.S. had a partial eclipse.
Both eclipses are similar in that they are total solar eclipses visible from North America. However, the paths of totality for the two eclipses are different, with the 2024 eclipse visible from Mexico to Canada, and the 2017 eclipse visible from the Pacific to the Atlantic coasts of the United States.
Correlation between solar eclipse and earthquakes
There is a common belief that solar eclipses might trigger earthquakes due to the alignment of the Earth, Sun, and Moon and the associated gravitational pull. However, scientific studies have shown that while there is a slight increase in seismic activity during full or new moons (which is when solar eclipses occur), there is no significant increase in seismic activity during solar eclipses compared to any other new or full moon.
The U.S Geological Survey (USGS) has indicated a correlation between high ocean tides and earth tides (which occur during full and new moons) and earthquakes on shallow thrust faults and undersea subduction zones.
Recent news reports also confirm that the 7.4 magnitude earthquake that struck Taiwan on April 3, 2024, and the 4.8 magnitude earthquake that struck the New York area just days later, only days before the 2024 total solar eclipse, are unrelated to the solar eclipse. So, while it’s an interesting topic of discussion, the consensus in the scientific community is that solar eclipses do not have a significant impact on the occurrence of earthquakes.
Earthquakes before or after the August 21, 2017, solar eclipse
There were several significant earthquakes before or after the August 21, 2017, solar eclipse. Here are some notable ones:
- Sichuan, China, (Magnitude: 6.5, Death toll: 25) on August 8.
- Chiapas offshore, Mexico, (Magnitude: 8.2, Death toll: 98) on September 8.
- Puebla, Mexico, (Magnitude: 7.1, Death toll: 370) on September 19.
The gravitational pull of the Sun and the Moon can slightly increase seismic activity during full or new moons (which is when solar eclipses occur). And The U.S Geological Survey (USGS) has indicated a correlation between high ocean tides and earth tides (which occur during full and new moons) and earthquakes. It’s important to note that earthquakes are complex phenomena influenced by a variety of geological factors, and predicting them accurately remains a challenge for scientists.
What astrologers say about the April 8, 2024 solar eclipse
Astrologers have a fascinating perspective on the April 8, 2024, solar eclipse. They believe that this celestial event, which falls in the sign of Aries, will bring about significant changes and transformations.
The eclipse is said to occur on the lunar nodes of destiny, which are currently in Aries and Libra. This is believed to be a time of healing from the past and embracing new beginnings. The constellation Chiron, known as the cosmos’ healer, is expected to connect with the eclipse degree, bringing closure to the past. Astrologers suggest that this eclipse will be a time of goodbyes and hellos, a magical journey of sorts. It’s like the universe is hitting the reset button, offering us a chance to start afresh.
For Aries, the eclipse is going to be eye-opening, giving a new window to the past. Taurus might confront their fears and gain a deeper understanding of themselves. Gemini might undergo a personal metamorphosis, bringing in relationships with those who share their values and goals.
Astrologers also believe that the eclipse is ruled by Mars, the planet of warrior energy, and it will affect the U.S. for months to come. It’s as if the cosmos is stirring up a celestial cocktail of change and transformation, and we’re all invited to the party.
So, whether you’re an Aries ready to make amends, a Taurus confronting your fears, or a Gemini meeting new people, the April 8 solar eclipse is set to be a memorable event. Remember to look up at the sky and make a wish. Who knows? The stars might just align in your favor. The next total solar eclipse that will be visible from the United States after the one on April 8, 2024, will occur on August 23, 2044.
