The first total solar eclipse in the US since 2017 approaches

JACKSON, Tenn. — A total solar eclipse will travel through a large section of the United States soon, allowing many to look up in in awe.

13 states across the U.S. will be able to see the full eclipse on April 8.

A solar eclipse happens when the moon is positioned between earth and the sun, and casts a shadow over earth.

This will be the first total solar eclipse in the U.S. Since 2017.

Although West Tennessee isn’t in the path of totality, you can still experience a partial solar eclipse where the moon covers part of the sun.

West of Memphis is the closest path of totality, where you will be able to see the outermost part of the sun’s atmosphere called the corona.

“Some of the brighter planets and stars will be visible. Even if you are not in the path of totality, you will feel that it gets a little eerie and strange and temperatures will change and it is really a breathtaking sight,” said Shannon Schmoll, Scientest at Michigan State University.

Scientists want to remind others when traveling to be cautious and expect delays in areas the eclipse will be totally visible.

“On the not so good part, do be prepared for traffic. There is going to be a lot of people who want to see this,” said Schmoll.

Experts also say do not look directly at the sun, as it will harm your eyes and cause permanent damage.

Use eclipse glasses or viewers that can be positioned in front of your eyes when looking at the sun.

“And you want to make sure they have the proper certification on them from the ISO saying 1-2-3-1-2-2 is the code,” said Schmoll.

You can also create indirect viewers that will project an image of the sun with simple household items.

Those household items include things with with a small pinhole to look through, for example a Ritz cracker, a colander or a notecard with punch holes will protect your eyes and allow you to see the eclipse.

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