On Monday, April 8, 2024, a total solar eclipse came to North America. All of North America experienced a partial solar eclipse but only those within the path of totality — an approximately 115-mile-wide route through Mexico, 15 U.S. States and Canada — were able to see the moon entirely cover the sun’s disk, according to NASA. A total solar eclipse happens when the Moon passes between the Sun and Earth, completely blocking the face of the Sun, darkening the sky as if it were dawn or dusk. After the total solar eclipse on April 8, 2024, the next total solar eclipse will occur on Aug. 12, 2026, when totality will be visible from Greenland, Iceland, the Atlantic Ocean and Spain.

Students at Cary Academy were lucky enough to watch the eclipse during Advisory and Club time. As the phenomenon unfolded, students were captivated by the gradual progression of the eclipse. Armed with solar eclipse glasses and telescopes equipped with solar filters, they eagerly watched as the moon began its transit across the sun. The sky gradually dimmed, enveloping the campus in a breathtaking dusk.  As students watched the eclipse, they were able to enjoy an array of space-themed snacks such as Moon pies, Sun Chips, and Capri Suns, which enhanced this celestial display. As students indulged in their space-themed snacks, the air was filled with the sound of music, creating a backdrop of excitement and anticipation as students watched this astronomical show.