The Solar Eclipse – Rochester 2024

For weeks, the buzz around town has been all about Rochester finding itself in the path of totality for the Solar Eclipse. It seems like everyone we know was caught up in the excitement of this astronomical phenomenon. George even joked about a late-season snowstorm ruining visibility. Despite the anticipation all around, I just couldn’t seem to muster up any excitement for it.

A solar eclipse occurs when the moon passes between the Earth and the sun, blocking some or all of the sun’s light from reaching Earth. This celestial event happens only during the new moon phase, when the moon is positioned directly between the Earth and the sun. There are three main types of solar eclipses: total, partial, and annular.

During a total solar eclipse, the moon completely covers the sun, casting a shadow on Earth and creating a brief period of darkness known as totality. In a partial solar eclipse, only a portion of the sun is obscured by the moon, resulting in a crescent-shaped sun. An annular solar eclipse happens when the moon is at a farther point in its orbit, appearing smaller in the sky and leaving a ring of sunlight visible around its edges. These events are rare and awe-inspiring events that have fascinated people throughout history.

Solar Eclipse April 8, 2024 Rochester NY

George was right about the no visibility.   It was a super overcast day here in Rochester.  The day prior or today was perfect for such an event.   Even an hour later we would have been able to see it.  Somehow the clouds cleared and the sun came out.   Way after the actual event itself.  What was cool is standing outside with our neighbors experiencing it getting dark and then light.   George wants to go to Austraila in 2028 and experience it.  We will see.  For those that were in the line and had clear skies, I hope you enjoyed it!