The Philippines will not witness the total solar eclipse slated for April 8 (today), according to the state weather bureau. This year’s eclipse path, spanning about 115 miles, will sweep across western Mexico, traverse several US cities including Dallas, Indianapolis, and Buffalo, before culminating in eastern Canada.
Astronomer Nico Mendoza from the Philippine Atmospheric, Geophysical and Astronomical Services Administration (PAGASA) noted that solar eclipses occur approximately four times annually. However, due to the eclipse timing, it will coincide with nighttime in the Philippines, limiting visibility to regions westward.
PAGASA identified the next opportunity for a total solar eclipse in the Philippines on April 20, 2042, visible from Legazpi City. The bureau also debunked rumors of a three-day darkness, dismissing them as baseless and lacking scientific backing.
While most of the United States will witness a partial eclipse, airlines have seized the opportunity, with some offering flights scheduled to cross under the eclipse path. Delta, for instance, reported selling out seats for two special eclipse trips within 24 hours.
NASA underscored the importance of eye protection during the eclipse, emphasizing safety within the path of totality. Nonetheless, the agency highlighted various studies planned for the event, ranging from its effects on Earth’s atmosphere and animal behavior to its impact on human psychology.
“Eclipses have a special power,” remarked NASA Administrator Bill Nelson. “They move people to feel a kind of reverence for the beauty of our universe.”
Paraluman P. Funtanilla
Paraluman P. Funtanilla is Tutubi News Magazine's Marketing Specialist and is a Contributing Editor. She finished her degree in Communication Arts in De La Salle Lipa. She has worked as a Digital Marketer for start-up businesses and small business spaces for the past two years. She has earned certificates from Coursera on Brand Management: Aligning Business Brand and Behavior and Viral Marketing and How to Craft Contagious Content. She also worked with Asia Express Romania TV Show.
