Total solar eclipse: Mexico, the United States, and Canada to look skyward this April 8th

The total solar eclipse on April 8th is eagerly awaited by tens of millions of people across North America, especially within the United States.

This rare phenomenon will bring unusual darkness to the day for those located along the path of totality, which will pass through Mexico, cross 15 U.S. states before heading to Canada, covering areas including Quebec and its major city, Montreal.


The moment of totality, which is the climax of the solar eclipse, occurs when the Moon perfectly aligns between the Earth and the Sun, completely obscuring the latter from our view. This phenomenon creates a surprising darkness during the day, momentarily transforming the landscape and providing both a fleeting and unforgettable spectacle.

The duration of the total eclipse varies by location, and for the one on April 8th, it will last up to an impressive maximum of 4 minutes and 27 seconds in specific places like Torreón, Mexico. Only those who are within the narrow band of totality will have the privilege of fully observing the eclipse, where the sun is entirely hidden by the Moon.

The entire continental United States (excluding Alaska) will enjoy a view of the partial eclipse, with coverage of about 15% in the farthest regions.


Safety is of utmost importance: direct viewing of the Sun is only safe during the total eclipse. Outside this moment, and during the partial phases, wearing appropriate eclipse glasses is essential to prevent permanent eye damage.

A total solar eclipse, like the one anticipated on April 8th, occurs when the Moon positions itself directly between the Earth and the Sun, casting its shadow on Earth. This astronomical phenomenon only happens when the Moon is close enough to the Earth to entirely cover the solar disc as seen from our planet.


For a few minutes, observers situated in the path of totality experience a sudden drop in daylight brightness, while the solar corona, the usually invisible outer atmosphere of the Sun, becomes visible around the dark silhouette of the Moon. This unique conjunction of necessary conditions creates a natural spectacle that is as rare as it is impressive.