What is a total solar eclipse?

A total solar eclipse is a rare astronomical event that happens when the moon passes between the sun and the earth, blocking the sun's light completely for a few minutes. The moon's shadow creates a narrow path of totality on the earth's surface, where the sky becomes dark and the sun's corona becomes visible.

When and where will the total solar eclipse of 2024 occur?

The total solar eclipse of 2024 will occur on Monday, April 8, 2024. The path of totality will cross 15 U.S. states, as well as parts of Mexico and Canada. The eclipse will begin in Mexico, near the Pacific coast, and travel northeast across Texas, Oklahoma, Arkansas, Missouri, Illinois, Indiana, Ohio, Pennsylvania, New York, Vermont, New Hampshire, and Maine. It will end near the Atlantic coast of Canada, in Newfoundland and Labrador. The duration of totality will vary from place to place, but the longest duration will be about 4 minutes and 28 seconds in Mexico.

How can I watch the total solar eclipse of 2024 safely?

Watching a total solar eclipse requires special precautions, as looking directly at the sun can cause permanent eye damage. You should never look at the sun without proper eye protection, such as eclipse glasses or solar filters. You should also avoid using binoculars, telescopes, cameras, or other devices that magnify the sun's rays, unless they have certified solar filters attached. You can watch the partial phases of the eclipse safely with these devices, but you must remove them during totality, when the sun is completely covered by the moon. You can also use indirect methods, such as pinhole projectors or shadow boxes, to view the eclipse safely.

What will I see during the total solar eclipse of 2024?

If you are in the path of totality, you will experience a dramatic change in the environment as the moon blocks the sun. The temperature will drop, the wind will change direction, the birds will stop singing, and the stars will appear. You will also see the sun's corona, which is the outer atmosphere of the sun that is usually hidden by its brightness. The corona is a wispy, white, and dynamic structure that extends millions of miles from the sun. You may also see some red prominences, which are jets of plasma that erupt from the sun's surface. You will also see the diamond ring effect, which is a bright flash of light that occurs just before and after totality, when a single point of the sun's disk is visible behind the moon.

What are some tips for planning my trip to see the total solar eclipse of 2024?

· Choose a location that is within the path of totality and has a good chance of clear weather. You can use online maps and tools to find the best viewing spots and the exact timings of the eclipse.

· Book your accommodation and transportation well in advance, as the eclipse will attract millions of visitors and cause congestion and shortages. You may also want to consider camping or staying with friends or relatives in the area.

· Pack your eclipse glasses, solar filters, and other viewing equipment, as well as water, snacks, sunscreen, and warm clothes. You may also want to bring a camera, a tripod, and a remote shutter release to capture the eclipse, but remember to use a solar filter and to remove it during totality.

· Arrive at your viewing location early and scout out a good spot with a clear view of the horizon. You may also want to practice using your equipment and setting up your camera before the eclipse.

· Enjoy the eclipse and share your experience with others. You can also participate in citizen science projects or educational activities that are organized by various groups and organizations.

General questions related to Avon Lake

Why is Ohio and Avon Lake getting so much attention regarding the total solar eclipse?

Ohio is within a one-day drive of 70% of the country’s population. Avon Lake is one of the locations identified as being “the best seat in the house” to watch the solar eclipse. Lorain county is one of nine counites in Ohio that are on the centerline of totality, with Avon Lake expecting to see 3 minutes and 52 seconds of totality.

What is the eclipse timeline?

· 1:59 pm Eclipse begins

· 3:13 pm Totality begins (for 3 minutes and 52 seconds)

· 3:17 pm Totality ends

· 4:28 pm Eclipse ends

Is Avon Lake doing anything special for the eclipse?

Avon Lake has numerous events coordinated and local businesses have been planning for months. Local astronomers, live music, food trucks, a 5K run, live streaming on a big screen, crafts, STEM activities, and a kids play area are all options to consider. The city has designated camping areas and RV options within select parks. Go to avonlakesolareclipse.com and avonlake.org/eclipsecamping for the most up-to-date city information.

Questions related to Christ Evangelical Lutheran Church

How close is the church to the centerline?

The church is well situated for the event. Experts have calculated that the center of the centerline runs through the front yard of the church’s property. Fox 8 News did a broadcast on March 15th from the church property and interviewed Pastor Laura.

Will the church building be open the day of the eclipse?

To balance various considerations and competing priorities, the church building will be closed the day of the eclipse.

Can I park in the church parking lot?

The parking lot is being made available to our youth as a fundraiser for their summer mission trip. Parking will be first come first served, and run $40 per day, Saturday, Sunday, and Monday. You can purchase passes for all three days starting on Saturday at noon.

What is the best way to get to the church? From what direction should I access the parking lot?

Avon Lake police are coordinating road closures. There may be short notice changes or point-in-time updates based on traffic patterns. We have been told that entry from Lake Road on the north side of the church will be available. Route 83 is likely to be closed south of the church.

Will I be able to come and go with my vehicle after I pay for parking?

Yes, parking passes can be displayed on your front dashboard and will be good for the entire day. Please recognize that traffic congestion may be significant.

Can I sit on the church lawn and watch the eclipse?

Yes. The church property sits between Avon Lake Memorial Stadium (where the Watch Party is being held) and Veteran’s Park. It is within walking distance to both, and we expect many people will view the event from our property.

Will the church have bathrooms or porta potty available?

The church building will be closed Saturday, April 7 through Monday, April 8. The city of Avon Lake has public restrooms and coordinated porta potty rentals for various locations around Avon Lake, including Memorial Stadium and the park across from the church.

Can I put a tent on the church property? Can I set up a blanket to sit on or use a lawn chair?

Tents, canopies, and camping are not permitted on the church property. Individual lawn chairs or a ground blanket are permitted.

Can I sleep in my vehicle that is parked in the church parking lot?

We do not encourage or recommend people sleeping in their vehicle. The city of Avon Lake has camping options available. See their website for more information.

We are a large group and have a bus or RV. Can we use the church parking lot too?

Please contact Eric Mohney at ericm@pjtube.com. He will discuss your request and specific needs with our church eclipse planning committee.