Astronomy lovers and curious sky gazers are preparing for an exceptional celestial event in 2024, when a solar eclipse is expected to spread its shadow across North America on April 8.
The much anticipated event occurs when the Moon delicately aligns itself between the Earth and the Sun, temporarily lowering the Sun’s brightness.
For anyone interested in observing this unique astronomical ballet, the eclipse’s route conveniently passes over the western side of Kentucky, including the city of Paducah. In addition to Paducah, this event can be seen in numerous other Kentucky cities and State parks.
Top 7 Include:
- Paducah
- Louisville
- Covington
- Bowling Green
- Pikeville
- Owensboro
- Wickliffe (The Wickliffe Mounds State Historic Site)
State and city officials in Kentucky are preparing for a major spike in tourists, as at least 150,000 people are expected to visit several counties in Western Kentucky during the whole solar eclipse.
In addition, more than a million visitors are anticipated to drive through Kentucky on their way to some of the best viewing locations along the eclipse’s main path, which is in Ohio, Indiana, and Illinois.
Recognizing the importance of the occasion, Governor Andy Beshear stated, “For many families in Kentucky, the solar eclipse will be a memorable and enjoyable event. I advise Kentuckians who want to witness it to make early plans so that everyone may attend safely.”
While the anticipation grows, safety always comes first. Throughout the eclipse, officials stress the importance of using secure handheld solar viewers or safe solar viewing glasses, sometimes known as “eclipse glasses”.
Warby Parker, Walmart, Lowes, Staples, and other big retailers carry these glasses. Undoubtedly, on the internet as well.
Regular sunglasses, no matter how dark, are deemed unsafe for direct Sun viewing.
Visit https://science.nasa.gov/eclipses/future-eclipses/eclipse-2024/where-when/ for more information on this event.
