How fast will the shadow of the 2024 annular solar eclipse move?
The annular solar eclipse on October 2, 2024 will be a remarkable celestial event. When the moon passes between Earth and the sun, it creates a ring of fire that is visible from parts of the Southern Hemisphere. But how quickly will this event unfold across the planet?
Why the eclipse speed varies
The speed at which the moon’s shadow moves during the solar eclipse will differ depending on your geographic location. The shadow is not uniform and will shift as it crosses different parts of the Earth. The curvature of the Earth, combined with the changing distance between the moon and the ground below, affects how quickly the shadow travels across the surface.
Where the shadow will move fastest
In some areas, especially when the eclipse is just beginning or ending, the moon’s shadow races at incredible speeds. At these extreme points, the moon’s shadow will be greater than 6 million miles per hour. This fast movement occurs when the shadow hits the Earth at an acute angle, causing the eclipse to flash across the sky in a matter of moments.
Where the shadow will move the slowest
At certain points, especially over the Pacific Ocean, the eclipse will slow down dramatically. In this region, the moon’s shadow will creep at a speed of about 2,057 km/h. This is where the eclipse will last the longest, with the ring of fire remaining visible for several minutes, allowing observers to enjoy this unique event for a long time.
What causes the speed fluctuations?
The different speeds are due to different factors. The eclipse begins when the moon’s shadow first makes contact with Earth, which happens at a steep angle, causing the shadow to move quickly. As the eclipse progresses, the shadow begins to hit the Earth more directly, slowing it down. The final factor is the distance between the moon and Earth, which is constantly shifting and further affects the speed.
