On Monday, April 8, the United States will experience a total solar eclipse for the first time in seven years. Residents of northeast Georgia should be ready to enjoy the show at around 1:48 p.m. EST.
The eclipse should be in progression for roughly two and a half hours, peaking at 3:06 p.m. with about 80-85% of the sun covered by the moon. The spectacular space show will conclude around 4:22 p.m., not to be seen again until 2044.
The previous most recent total solar eclipse was on Aug. 21, 2017. This specific astrological event graced northeast Georgia with total darkness for roughly 90 seconds. Many Georgia residents recall viewing the total solar eclipse in group settings, as the eclipse darkened the skies around midday while the sun would have been beating down on any other summer day.
“My family and I went up into the mountains so we could be in the path of the full eclipse,” said Cumming, Georgia native Emma Williams. “We found a parking lot on the top of a hill that overlooked a golf course, and it ended up being a perfect spot because we could see the whole landscape get darker and darker.”
For a slim portion of the United States, including major cities Dallas and Indianapolis, the eclipse will cover the entirety of the sun, allowing the population located in the direct path of the total solar eclipse to experience what Williams fondly remembers from 2017.
This total eclipse is expected to cast darkness over the cities in the direct path for about four minutes, which is double the total darkness time from the total eclipse in August 2017.
“I remember the skies being really clear, and we had those eclipse glasses, so once the sun was completely covered, we were able to see the eclipse itself,” said Williams.
When viewing the total solar eclipse, whether the moon will fully cover the sun or not, it is vital that those planning to view the phenomenon purchase solar eclipse glasses to protect their eyes from the sun’s harsh rays. Staring at the sun, even if a shadow is cast over the Earth from the moon, is dangerous for the human eye.
Solar eclipse glasses can be purchased at stores such as Lowe’s and Walmart as well as online shopping sites like Amazon for under $10 for a pack of six to ten.
Although Habersham County and surrounding areas will not experience the complete totality of the eclipse, this astrological phenomenon is still worth the view. For prime viewing locations, head to local spots where the sky is clear and there are few obstructions.
Whether northeast Georgians will be viewing the eclipse from the top of Currahee Mountain or the depths of the Walker Athletic Complex on Piedmont University’s campus, the universe will provide a magnificent and memorable show for all.
As a reminder, bring safety solar eclipse glasses to view this celestial event that will be in effect from around 1:48 p.m. to around 4:22 p.m. on April 8, 2024.
