What Time Is The Solar Eclipse 2024 in Alabama? And What to Expect?

While Alabama will not be in the path of totality for the 2024 solar eclipse, it will still offer prime viewing.

While Alabama won’t experience the full grandeur of a total solar eclipse in 2024, it will still be treated to an impressive celestial show. On April 8, 2024, a partial solar eclipse will grace the state’s skies, offering residents a unique opportunity to witness the moon partially obscuring the sun. Using specialised eye protection is crucial to protect one’s eyes from the bright sun during the eclipse’s partial phases.

Eclipse Timing in Alabama

For those in Montgomery and other parts of Alabama’s River Region, the eclipse will begin at 12:40 PM Central Daylight Time and conclude at 3:17 PM. During the eclipse peak at 1:59 PM, the moon’s shadow partially covers the sun, obscuring approximately 81% of its surface.

Where to Watch

Auburn University at Montgomery (AUM) hosts a public viewing event on campus between 1:30 PM and 2:30 PM, providing telescopes and certified eclipse glasses for safe viewing. It is crucial to use proper equipment for solar viewing to prevent severe eye injury. This is a fantastic opportunity to share the experience with fellow enthusiasts and learn more about the eclipse.

Eclipse Glasses: A Must-Have

Crucially, never look directly at the sun’s bright face without proper eye protection, especially during the eclipse’s partial phases. Doing so can cause permanent eye damage. Eclipse glasses are specifically designed to filter out harmful ultraviolet and infrared rays, making it safe to view the eclipse. Ensure that your glasses are ISO-certified to guarantee their safety.

2024 Total Solar Eclipse

While Alabama will only experience a partial eclipse this year, the next total solar eclipse to grace the United States will occur in 2044. However, this celestial event will be visible primarily in Montana and the Dakotas. Notably, a total solar eclipse visible from the contiguous United States will occur on April 8, 2024, offering a rare and beautiful celestial event. For those eager to witness totality, another opportunity will arise in August 2045, when the path of totality will cross from California into the Southeastern United States.

Planning for Your Eclipse Experience

Whether you choose to watch the eclipse from your backyard, a local park, or a public viewing event, remember to plan. Weather permitting, clear skies are crucial for optimal viewing of the eclipse. Check weather forecasts to increase your chances of clear skies. Bring a camera or smartphone to capture this extraordinary event, but always prioritize eye safety by using eclipse glasses.

By following these guidelines and embracing the excitement of this celestial phenomenon, you can make the most of Alabama’s partial solar eclipse and create lasting memories.