Countdown to the Eclipse

Southern Illinois experienced the first of two solar total eclipses on August 21, 2017, the second will occur on April 8, 2024.

What is a total solar eclipse? A total solar eclipse is when the moon is directly between the Sun and Earth creating an umbra shadow on our planet. This once-in-a-lifetime (or twice if you saw the one in 2017) experience will darken the sky and reveal the sun’s corona in stunning detail. 

Astronomers inform us that it typically takes 375 years for a single location on earth to experience a total solar eclipse, thus making Southern Illinois even more unique with a second total solar eclipse seven years later. The estimated number of visitors arriving in Southern Illinois to view this peak lifetime event is estimated to reach over 100,000 travelers.

On April 8th, 2024 this eclipse will travel across the United States of America. In Illinois, the Moon’s shadow will sweep across the state in totality in just 4 minutes and 6.4 seconds. Stretching from Texas to Maine, the 2024 eclipse will occur closer to Earth, making the moon appear larger in the sky and providing a more awe-inspiring experience for viewers.

1. 1. Texas
   2. Oklahoma
   3.  Arkansas
   4. Missouri
   5. Illinois
   6. Indiana
   7. Ohio
   8. New York
   9. Vermont
   10. Maine

In Southern Illinois, the totality of the 2024 solar eclipse will last approximately 4 minutes. However, the whole eclipse, including the partial eclipses before and after the full eclipse, will have a duration of 2 hours and 35 minutes. The greatest duration will only last for a mere 4 minutes and 9 seconds.

We want this to be a great experience for everyone, so please be respectful to nearby businesses and residents. Do not park or congregate in places that would inhibit anyone else from enjoying the show.