Your Snapshots From The Solar Eclipse

The “mental snapshots” readers shared from the April 8 solar eclipse capture the joy, wonder, and surreality of the day.

On April 8, those in the path of the total solar eclipse were able to witness a rare moment of alignment between the sun and moon. I flew from New York to Texas to see totality, and all I’ll say is that it was sufficiently exquisite. Rain or shine, totality or partiality, I hope your experience was terrific, too.

All of the submissions to our eclipse memory snapshot form were absolutely delightful! Below, you’ll find a compilation of a few eclipse memories we received.


Eclipse totality and a 360 sunset over a white fence
Meg T. watched the eclipse with some of her friends of over 40 years. Credit: Harrison T.

My expectations were through the roof, but I was still not prepared for the magnificence of the time leading up to totality as the light faded and colors muted. I was a complete mess by the time totality began. I will never forget the day.

— Meg T., viewing from New Castle, IN


The birds which were chirping earlier seemed to have taken a refuge, and no cars were driving—all things went splendidly silent … Our two year old son—who was oblivious to the eclipse and the occurrence—understood the sudden and total darkness.

— Arpan, viewing from Waterford, VT


A woman wearing eclipse glasses leaning back in a lawn chair watching the eclipse.
Tom’s wife, Mary Jo, enjoying the eclipse. Credit: Tom M.

 

Just a sliver of sun seen, 94% coverage. Dogs barking and cooler.

— Tom M., viewing from Western Springs, IL


During totality someone mentioned the sunset all around. So I turned in all directions 360° and sure enough, the sun was setting in every direction.

— Kathy K., viewing from Galconda, IL


A family wearing eclipse glasses and looking up at the April 8 eclipse.
Viewing from San Miguel de Allende, Mexico, Jim D. described 85% totality as “almost in the pattern of a smile.” Credit: Jim D.

The most unusual thing I experienced was the light before totality. The shadows were weird, and it was like dusk, but completely different.

— Jenion T., viewing from Dallas, TX


A straight-on view of eclipse totality. A silver ring in a dark sky, with a flare of round light on the lower left part of the ring.
This photo was captured when totality passed over a remote alpine area near Durango, Mexico. Credit: Eric B.

This was an installment of our 2024 limited-run eclipse newsletter, “Moon Mail.” See the full “Moon Mail” archive here.

Meet the Writer

About Emma Lee Gometz

Emma Lee Gometz is Science Friday’s Digital Producer of Engagement. She writes SciFri’s “Science Goes To The Movies” series and is a journalist and illustrator based in Queens, NY.

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