2024’s Celestial Spectacles: Solar Eclipses and Supermoons Await

In 2024, astrotourism is set to take center stage, offering travelers a unique opportunity to witness some of the most awe-inspiring celestial events. The year begins with the eagerly awaited total solar eclipse on April 8, a rare phenomenon that will be the last of its kind visible in the United States for the next two decades. The eclipse will start its journey over the South Pacific Ocean before making landfall on Mexico’s Pacific coast, captivating observers with its breathtaking display. As the moon completely covers the sun, the sky will go dark, creating a moment of awe and wonder for those lucky enough to witness it. The eclipse will then move across the U.S. in a narrow strip, passing through states such as Texas, Oklahoma, Arkansas, Missouri, Illinois, Kentucky, Indiana, Ohio, Pennsylvania, New York, Vermont, New Hampshire, and Maine. A small part of Tennessee and Michigan will also experience the eclipse. After crossing the U.S., the eclipse will be visible in Canada, passing through Southern Ontario, Quebec, New Brunswick, Prince Edward Island, and Cape Breton, before exiting via the Atlantic coast of Newfoundland.

Following the total solar eclipse, astrotourists can look forward to another celestial spectacle on October 2, when an annular solar eclipse will be visible over South America. This type of eclipse occurs when the moon is too far away from Earth to completely cover the sun, creating a ring of fire effect. The annular eclipse will be mostly over the Pacific Ocean, making it more visible from countries like Chile, Argentina, and Easter Island. The eclipse is expected to begin around 10:56 UTC in the southern Pacific Ocean, lasting about three hours, ending in the southern Atlantic Ocean at 13:52 UTC. The maximum point of the eclipse will be visible over Argentina at 12:25 UTC, providing a stunning sight for those in the region.

In addition to the eclipses, 2024 will feature two supermoons, where the moon appears larger and more luminous than usual. The first supermoon will occur on September 18 and will coincide with a partial lunar eclipse, visible from most of America, Europe, and Africa. The experience will begin at 8:41 p.m. EDT (0141 GMT on Sept. 18) and end at 12:47 a.m. EDT on Sept. 18 (0547 GMT), lasting just over four hours. The second supermoon will occur on October 17 and will be even closer, offering a stunning view of the moon’s surface.

Astrotourism is predicted to be one of the biggest travel trends in 2024, driven by a growing interest in dark sky tourism. Travelers are increasingly seeking out destinations with minimal light pollution to enjoy the beauty of the night sky. Dark Sky International, a non-profit organization, has reported an increase in interest in dark sky tourism. Travel operators like Discover the World have seen a 40% year-on-year increase in northern lights holiday inquiries, while Black Tomato has launched a special collection of holidays tailored to viewing rare astrotourism events. For travelers looking to find the perfect spot to witness these celestial events, Dark Sky Places offers a collection of sanctuaries and parks around the world with perfect visibility for such events.

In conclusion, whether you’re a seasoned astrotourist or just looking for a unique travel experience, 2024 promises to be an exciting year for celestial events. From total solar eclipses to supermoons, there’s something for everyone to marvel at in the night sky. So pack your bags, grab your eclipse glasses, and get ready to witness the wonders of the universe in 2024.