TL/DR –
A solar eclipse is expected to occur in the U.S., with some parts of southern Illinois falling in the path of totality where the sun will be completely covered by the moon for several minutes. In Carbondale, the largest Illinois city in the path, totality will begin at approximately 1:59 p.m. and end at approximately 2:03 p.m. For areas outside of the path of totality, including Chicago and its surrounding suburbs, a partial eclipse will occur, with the region experiencing an estimated 94% totality and safety glasses or other tools will be necessary for safe viewing.
Anticipation Builds for US Solar Eclipse
With the US hours away from Monday’s solar eclipse, eager viewers are identifying prime viewing spots and optimal times to witness this celestial phenomenon. More details on the upcoming solar eclipse can be found here.
The Path of Totality
Several southern Illinois communities lie in the path of totality, set to witness complete solar coverage. Chicago and surrounding suburbs will see a partial but still remarkable eclipse, estimated at 94% coverage.
NASA scientists explain that a total solar eclipse arises when the new moon crosses the sun’s path, causing partial to near-total obscuration.
Carbondale, the largest Illinois city in the path, will experience totality starting around 1:59 p.m., concluding around 2:03 p.m. as the eclipse moves diagonally over Fairfeld and exits at Mount Carmel.
Partial eclipse viewers in Chicago can look forward to a longer lasting event, but without suitable glasses or tools, it won’t be safe to watch the eclipse outside of the totality path.
City-by-City Breakdown
Time and Date provides an in-depth breakdown of what viewers can expect and when. Here’s a summary for several cities:
Chicago: Partial eclipse starts: 12:51:28, reaches maximum at 14:07:41, ends: 15:22:02
DeKalb: Begins: 12:50:03, maximum: 14:06:09, ends: 15:20:36
Orland Park: Begins: 12:50:48, maximum: 14:07:10, ends: 15:21:42
Schaumburg: Begins: 12:51:05, maximum: 14:07:10, ends: 15:21:29
Check your city’s specific timing here.
Path of Totality Cities
For viewers seeking total eclipse, here’s a list of Illinois cities per the Illinois DNR:
Carbondale: Totality begins: 13:59:15, maximum: 14:01:20, ends: 14:03:25
Makanda: Begins: 13:59:09, maximum: 14:01:14, ends: 14:03:19
Alto Pass: Begins: 13:58:56, maximum: 14:01:01, ends: 14:03:06
Golconda: Begins: 14:00:39, maximum: 14:02:04, ends: 14:03:30
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