This spring, the skies will become dark as a total solar eclipse is expected to be visible in the United States.
The astronomical phenomenon is scheduled for April 8, marking the second occurrence since October.
If the weather allows, the Myrtle Beach area may witness a partial solar eclipse on April 8.
According to NASA, the upcoming solar eclipse will be the final one visible in the contiguous U.S. until August 23, 2044.
Here is a step-by-step guide on how to observe the eclipse.
When can you see it?
The partial solar eclipse will be observable from around 1:56 p.m. to 4:27 p.m. on April 8th. See it here on that date.
In the Myrtle Beach area, they will only experience a partial eclipse because the Grand Strand is not in the direct path of totality. At the peak, only 70% of the sun will be covered.
What is a solar eclipse?
NASA explains that a total solar eclipse occurs when the moon comes directly between the sun and the Earth, resulting in the sun’s face being fully obscured. This event causes the sky to darken, resembling the transition between day and night.
A partial solar eclipse occurs when the moon partially covers the sun.
In 2017, South Carolina witnessed a complete solar eclipse, with the entire sun being obscured in the area of totality.
How can you watch the eclipse?
Viewing the eclipse directly with your naked eyes can result in harm to your eyes, regardless of whether you are using sunglasses, a camera, or a regular telescope.
To safely view the eclipse, it is recommended to purchase eclipse glasses or create a pinhole camera using paper.
Here are other eclipses you can view
According to Time and Date, residents in the Myrtle Beach area will have the opportunity to observe a penumbral lunar eclipse on March 25. The best viewing time will be at 3:12 a.m.
A penumbral lunar eclipse occurs when the moon passes through the faint outer part of Earth’s shadow. This type of eclipse is not as visually striking as other lunar eclipses and is sometimes mistakenly thought to be a regular full moon.