Eclipse FAQs
What is a total solar eclipse?
For a total eclipse to occur, the sun, moon and Earth must be in a direct line. A total solar eclipse is visible from a small area on earth. The moon covers up the sun, causing the sky to become very dark as if it were night. In order to see the full effect of the total solar eclipse, you must be in the “Path of Totality.” If you are outside of that path, you will see a partial eclipse.
What will I see?
There are five stages in a total solar eclipse:
Partial eclipse begins (1st contact): The Moon becomes visible over the Sun's disk. It looks like the Moon has taken a bite out of the Sun.
Total eclipse begins (2nd contact): The Moon covers the entire disk of the Sun, and observers are now within the Moon's umbra, the darkest part of the Moon's shadow. A diamond ring effect and Baily's beads are visible just before totality.
Totality and maximum eclipse: The Moon completely covers the disk of the Sun. Only the Sun's corona is visible. This is the most dramatic stage of a total solar eclipse. At this time, the sky goes dark, temperatures can fall, and birds and animals often go quiet. The midpoint of time of totality is known as the maximum point of the eclipse.
Total eclipse ends (3rd contact): The Moon starts moving away, and the Sun reappears. Those fortunate enough to be in the Moon's umbral can see Baily's beads and the diamond ring effect just after totality ends.
Partial eclipse ends (4th contact): The eclipse ends as the Moon leaves the Sun's disk.
Where do I need to be to see the full effect of a total eclipse?
To see the full effect of a total eclipse, you must be directly in the moon’s shadow, known as the “path of totality.” TJC and most of Tyler, TX will be in this path of totality; however, cities south and east of Tyler, such as Whitehouse, Bullard, Chapel Hill, Kilgore, and Longview are not in the path of totality and will only see a partial eclipse.
You can find out if your exact location will be in the path of totality by using this interactive eclipse map: http://xjubier.free.fr/en/site_pages/solar_eclipses/TSE_2024_GoogleMapFull.html
Where is a good place to view the eclipse in Tyler?
There will be many places to view the eclipse. For those who reside in the path of totality, you may even be able to view the eclipse from your own backyard! You may also visit TotalityTyler.com for a list of locations around the city of Tyler that are hosting events.
How long will the solar eclipse last?
In Tyler, TX the eclipse will last approximately 2.5 hours with 2 minutes of totality. The eclipse will begin at 12:24pm. Totality will last from 1:43pm-1:45pm, and the eclipse will conclude at 3:04pm. Exact timing will vary, so be sure to check local listings for precise timing.
How can I safely view the eclipse?
The only safe way of looking directly at the sun, whether during a solar eclipse or otherwise, is through certified solar filters. These special filters are used in “eclipse glasses.” This does NOT include sun glasses.
Extra Special for a TOTAL SOLAR ECLIPSE
During a total solar eclipse, you can take your glasses off and look directly at the sun during the short time when the moon completely obscures the sun -known as the “period of totality.” But, remember to put your glasses back on to protect your eyes as the period of totality ends and the event returns to a partial eclipse phase. It will be important to check exact timing of when totality occurs to know when to put your glasses back on.
Where can I get safe solar eclipse glasses?
The TJC Earth & Space Science Center will have eclipse glasses available in our gift shop beginning March 1 for $3 (limit 5 per customer) while supplies last. You can also find a list of approved vendors by visiting: https://eclipse.aas.org/eye-safety/viewers-filters
Beginning April 1: TJC students, staff, and faculty will be able to receive one free pair of eclipse glasses with their student ID by visiting the TJC Earth & Space Science Center, or at one of the other distribution points around campus. Stay tuned to the TJC Newsletter for additional information.