Jason Kendall

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Experiencing the Total Solar Eclipse on August 21, 2017

In this session, I recount my experience of the total solar eclipse on August 21, 2017, in Glendo, Wyoming. The eclipse journey began early in the morning and involved detailed travel planning and coordination with a travel agency. I feature some Images captured by Vishnu Reddy, depicting the stages of the eclipse. The first contact, where the Moon starts covering the Sun, occurred at around 10:24 AM, leading to totality about an hour and 22 minutes later. Bailey’s beads, seen just before totality, occur due to the Sun’s light passing through the Moon’s mountains and valleys, creating the illusion of beads. Totality lasted for approximately 2 minutes and 29 seconds, revealing spectacular solar features such as the corona and prominences. The corona, a wispy gaseous element around the Sun, glows brightly and is incredibly hot. As totality progressed, temperatures dropped significantly, which was felt by all present. During the eclipse, nature’s behavior was notable—birds went quiet, and the sky had an eerie hue, akin to sunset in the middle of the day. I was accompanied by my parents, making the event even more memorable, especially since my father passed away in 2021. We also toured through familiar southwestern landscapes, adding to the trip’s emotional significance. The return journey was challenging due to heavy traffic, underscoring the need for thorough planning for such events. Looking ahead, the next major total solar eclipse will be on April 8, 2024, with optimal viewing in areas like Dallas-Fort Worth and parts of Mexico. It is essential to plan well in advance, considering that accommodation gets booked quickly. Regions like northern Texas, with clear skies, offer the best prospects for eclipse viewing. Experiencing a total solar eclipse is an unparalleled and primal experience. If possible, make every effort to witness the event from the path of totality, as it is a truly awe-inspiring spectacle.