INDIANA – On April 8, 2024, a total solar eclipse will cross North America, but unlike in 2017, the path of 100% totality will sweep directly through Indiana from southwest to northeast.
A total solar eclipse hasn’t occurred over the lands of present-day Indiana in more than 800 years. After the 2024 total eclipse, the state will not experience another one until 2044.
Within the next 12 months, the United States will have two chances to view solar eclipses again with an annular solar eclipse on Oct. 14, 2023, stretching from Oregon to Texas and the previously mentioned total solar eclipse in 2024 from Texas through Indiana and to Maine. On NASA’s newly released eclipse map, the paths of both eclipses appear as dark bands where the largest area of the sun will be covered by the moon. Locations in the centers of their paths will experience each eclipse longer than those areas near the edges. There are several versions and resolutions of the map available to download.
It is never safe to view the annular eclipse without eye protection since the sun is never completely covered, leaving a ring of its corona exposed. During the total solar eclipse, eye protection is required during all phases except the minutes-long period of totality. Learn about eclipse eye safety from the American Astronomical Society. The marketplace is being flooded by counterfeit eclipse glasses that are labeled as if they’re ISO-compliant when in fact they are not, so check the list of reputable vendors of solar filters and viewers.
Visit Indiana has an eclipse countdown website as Hoosiers and visitors alike prepare to experience between 100% totality in the path and a 90% eclipse statewide on the afternoon of April 8, 2024. The Indiana Department of Natural Resources will be updating its 2024 eclipse webpage with events, viewing locations, and more. As the excitement builds, more events will be announced.
