In just a few short years, Texans will have the chance to witness a rare and awe-inspiring event: a total solar eclipse. On April 8, 2023, the path of totality will pass over parts of central and south Texas, giving residents and visitors a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to see the sun completely blocked out by the moon.
Total solar eclipses occur when the moon passes directly between the sun and the Earth, casting a shadow on the Earth’s surface. The path of totality is the narrow band of locations where the eclipse is visible in its entirety, and it moves across the Earth’s surface as the moon orbits the Earth.
While solar eclipses are not particularly rare events, total eclipses are much rarer. They occur only when the moon is at the right distance from the Earth and its shadow falls on the Earth’s surface. Total eclipses also require clear skies and a location where the eclipse is visible.
Texas is fortunate to be in the path of totality for the 2023 eclipse, which will sweep across the state from the northwest to the southeast. Cities that will experience the total eclipse include Austin, San Antonio, and Houston.
For those lucky enough to be in the path of totality, the experience of a total solar eclipse is truly unforgettable. As the moon blocks the sun, the sky will darken to a deep blue-black, and the temperature will drop. The stars and planets will become visible, and the corona, or outer atmosphere, of the sun will be visible as a glowing halo around the moon.
If you’re planning to witness the 2023 eclipse, there are a few things you should keep in mind. First, it’s important to make sure you have proper eye protection to view the eclipse safely. Looking directly at the sun, even during an eclipse, can cause permanent eye damage. You’ll also want to plan ahead for traffic and crowds, as many people will be traveling to witness the eclipse.
But for those who do make the effort to see the eclipse, it will be a truly unforgettable experience. So mark your calendars for April 8, 2023, and start planning your trip to witness the rare and beautiful event of a total solar eclipse in Texas.
