Two solar eclipses are expected in the next year — and Austin gets to see both
A solar eclipse is when the moon passes in front of the sun, covering its light. A lunar eclipse is when the Earth blocks the sun’s light from hitting the moon.
Austin-area residents will have the opportunity to view two solar eclipses in the next 12 months just by looking up. No travel is required. Here’s what we know:
What's the difference between solar eclipse and lunar eclipse?
There are two kinds of eclipses — solar and lunar. A solar eclipse is when the moon passes in front of the sun, covering its light. A lunar eclipse is when the Earth blocks the sun’s light from hitting the moon, creating a reddish hue on the moon during the night.
The distance between the moon and the Earth affects how visible a solar eclipse is. When the moon is closer to Earth, it can completely block the sun, resulting in a total solar eclipse. When the moon is furthest away from Earth, it does not block the entire view of the sun, creating an annular, or ring-shaped, solar eclipse. People will be able to see a "ring of fire" as the outer edges of the sun remains uncovered by the moon.
When is the first eclipse in the Austin area?
On Oct. 14, the next annular solar eclipse will be visible in our area. Anyone within the eclipse’s path from Oregon to Texas will have a chance to see the event if the skies are clear. San Antonio is inside the direct path of optimal viewing, so people there will be able to view the eclipse anywhere from 3 to 4½ minutes. Because Austin is just northeast of the path, the range of viewing here will be less than 3 minutes. The best time for eclipse viewing in the Austin area will be between 11:50 a.m. and 11:55 a.m.
When is the second eclipse in the Austin area?
On Monday, April 8, 2024, a total solar eclipse will occur. The eclipse’s path will go northeast from Texas to Maine. Austin is on the edge of the direct path and should be viewable for about 3 minutes. The best time for viewing the eclipse in the Austin area will be between 1:35 p.m. and 1:40 p.m.
How can I safely watch the eclipse?
Looking at the sun for an extended amount of time can cause eye damage. While watching the eclipse, NASA recommends specialized eye protection meant for solar viewing. Regular sunglasses are not safe for viewing the sun. Looking at the sun through a camera lens, telescope or binoculars while also using eclipse glasses can cause serious eye damage.
Where would I get eclipse glasses?
There are many retail chains that sell eclipse glasses. These are typically made of cardboard and are less than $2 each. To verify the glasses are certified and safe to use, make sure the “ISO” (International Organization for Standardization) icon is on the frame.
When will an eclipse happen again?
After the two eclipses within the next year, the next one will be an annular eclipse on Oct. 2, 2024. But if you want to view that one, you're going to have to travel to South America or Antarctica.