The Beauty and Mystery of Solar Eclipses

Mateo Jarquin

Every so often, the vast universe treats us with a breathtaking spectacle visible right here, on the little blue and green planet we call Earth. One such astronomical event is none other than a solar eclipse. On April 8th, 2024, we will be fortunate enough to witness the moon gracefully move between the Earth and the sun, casting its grand shadow down upon us.

Solar eclipses occur when the moon aligns perfectly with the sun and the Earth, blocking out nearly all the sunlight in some parts of the world. This is known as a total solar eclipse, the same kind that will be visible to all the students of the school Alexander Galt this spring, who are taking time out of their busy schedules to celebrate it. 

During a total solar eclipse, the absence of sunlight will plunge your surroundings into darkness, revealing only a halo made up of the sun’s rays. It is said to be a moment of wonder, reminding everyone of the grandeur that is the universe.

Beyond their beauty, solar eclipses have left a long lasting impression on humans over the years, becoming the cause of several theories, legends, and scientific inquiries set to further humanity. They were sometimes seen as messages from a higher power, while others saw them as an opportunity to study the complexities of the universe.

The 2024 total solar eclipse will be the first time in half a century since an event of its kind passed through Quebec. It's best to admire it this year, as the next one to be observed in our region will be 2106.

Canadian Space Agency/Website

Yet, perhaps the most astounding aspect of a solar eclipse is its ability to bring humankind together. It doesn’t seem to matter whether or not the people on this utterly insignificant, blue and green planet, see this once in a lifetime occurrence from their busy cities, or their remote landscapes. Solar eclipses have this unique power to surpass the borders humanity has created, connecting us to something greater than ourselves.

In a world filled with uncertainties, celestial events like these serve as a good reminder, to all you humans out there, of the enduring universe that never stops giving.