The Mid-south Eclipse Experience: Your Complete Guide to the Astronomical Phenomenon

Today (April 8) a solar eclipse will be visible in Memphis, as well as adjacent portions of Tennessee, Arkansas, and Mississippi. Here’s everything you need to know to safely view the eclipse.

What is a Solar Eclipse?

A solar eclipse occurs when the moon passes between the sun and Earth, covering the sun’s light for a few minutes. Totality refers to the brief period during which the moon fully hides the sun. Memphis will not be in the path of totality during this eclipse, thus the sun will not be entirely covered. Nonetheless, approximately 98% of the sun will be obscured throughout the eclipse in Memphis and other regions of the Mid-South. The sun will be partially veiled across the whole continental United States.

Last October, the Memphis area experienced a partial solar eclipse, which covered around half of the sun. The Mid-South last experienced a significant solar eclipse like this one in 2017, and the next one will not occur until 2045.

When is the Solar Eclipse?

This year’s solar eclipse will occur in the afternoon. The partial eclipse will start in Memphis around 12:30 p.m.

The greatest eclipse will occur in the Mid-South around 1:57 p.m., covering almost 98% of the sun. It will be substantially darker outside during this time, although not as dark as at night. The eclipse will end at about 3 p.m.

Where Can I View the Eclipse?

While Memphis and other Mid-South areas will experience a beautiful 98% eclipse that will darken the skies, many people are choosing to go to the path of totality for an even more spectacular glimpse of the 100% total eclipse. This is where the moon covers the sun, allowing you a magnificent view of the solar corona around it.

The entire eclipse will be visible throughout Central and Northeastern Arkansas, including Little Rock and Jonesboro, the closest to Memphis. State parks and other organizations are offering events such as solar eclipse observation parties.

What is the Weather Like?

Overall, viewing conditions for Monday’s eclipse should be favorable in the Memphis area. The finest view will be from Northern Arkansas, where the sky will be largely sunny. There will be a few clouds rolling in from the south by Monday afternoon, but they should be high and thin enough to provide a good view of the eclipse.

How Do I Watch the Eclipse?

Wherever you choose to view the eclipse, you must do so safely. You should purchase special solar eclipse glasses, which are available at many local stores and internet sellers. Regular sunglasses do not give adequate protection for looking straight at the sun; instead, you should purchase a pair of these specialized glasses.

Many local school districts are either canceling classes or preparing special celebrations for the eclipse.

We will also cover the eclipse live! Starting at 1 p.m., we will broadcast live coverage of the complete solar eclipse via 24+, our free streaming service for Roku, Amazon Fire TV, and Apple TV, as well as our mobile app. Download today to avoid missing out!