NEW YORK — Mark your calendars! A total solar eclipse will grace the skies of New York on April 8, 2024, bringing a remarkable celestial event that will draw the gaze of many enthusiasts and curious observers alike. The eclipse is projected to peak around 3:25 p.m. EDT, with the totality phase expected for those on the southern edge of the path, appearing for a short duration of up to four minutes.
Eclipse Overview
The solar eclipse will begin its journey across Mexico's Pacific coast at approximately 2:07 p.m. EDT, ushering in a magnificent spectacle that follows a course through parts of Texas and up north through states like Arkansas, Illinois, and Indiana, before making its presence known in New York. By the end of the day, it will exit the North American continent.
What is the Path of Totality?
Upstate New York will be particularly fortunate, sitting within the path of totality, where observers can witness the moon completely obscuring the sun. This region spans a 124-mile stretch across 29 counties, including cities like Buffalo, Rochester, and Syracuse.
Conversely, New York City will experience a partial eclipse, witnessing about 90% of sunlight obscured by the moon.
When and Where to Watch the Eclipse in New York
Path and Timing
For those in upstate regions, here’s a snapshot of what to expect at various locations on April 8:
- Jamestown
- Partial eclipse: Begins at 2:03:38 p.m.
- Full eclipse: Peaks at 3:17:55 p.m., ends at 3:20:46 p.m.
- Buffalo
- Partial eclipse: Begins at 2:04:56 p.m.
- Full eclipse: Peaks at 3:18:20 p.m., ends at 3:22:06 p.m.
- Rochester
- Partial eclipse: Begins at 2:07:00 p.m.
- Full eclipse: Peaks at 3:20:08 p.m., ends at 3:23:47 p.m.
- Syracuse
- Partial eclipse: Begins at 2:09:01 p.m.
- Full eclipse: Peaks at 3:23:03 p.m., ends at 3:24:30 p.m.
- Watertown
- Partial eclipse: Begins at 2:10:05 p.m.
- Full eclipse: Peaks at 3:22:33 p.m., ends at 3:26:12 p.m.
- Plattsburgh
- Partial eclipse: Begins at 2:14:03 p.m.
- Full eclipse: Peaks at 3:25:44 p.m., ends at 3:29:18 p.m.
New York City Schedule
For those in the five boroughs of New York City, the eclipse will peak at 3:25 p.m., and the viewing schedule is as follows:
- Staten Island: Peak around 3:25:11 p.m.
- Southwestern Brooklyn: Peak around 3:25:30 p.m.
- Manhattan: Peak at 3:25:39 p.m. near Central Park.
- Northeastern Queens: Peak around 3:25:59 p.m.
Safety Precautions
City officials advise extreme caution for anyone planning to observe the celestial event, especially motorists. Drivers are encouraged to turn on their headlights during the eclipse and are reminded that pulling over on the shoulder to watch the event is prohibited.
For those wanting to engage more deeply in the event, CBS News New York will provide live coverage from around the state.
Why Be Excited?
Eclipses are exceedingly rare occurrences, and for many, this may be the last opportunity for several years to witness such a phenomenon in New York. Watching the moon obscure the sun, accompanied by changes in light and temperature, creates a mesmerizing experience reminiscent of ancient civilizations that crafted myths around such celestial events.
As the date approaches, astronomers and enthusiasts alike are gearing up for this spectacular display, ensuring that viewers are well-prepared to enjoy this awe-inspiring natural wonder.
Mark April 8, 2024, on your calendars and prepare for a cosmic event that will surely be remembered for years to come!
