Experiencing the Sun from 93 Million Miles Away

The Total Solar Eclipse on April 8, 2024, is less than two weeks away! Shores & Islands Ohio has been celebrating alongside NASA in their Heliophysics Big Year celebration by releasing blogs in line with NASA's monthly themes.

This month, as we gear up for the Total Solar Eclipse, we're giving you a closer look at how you can experience the sun in a myriad of ways.

Let's take a look!

How the Sun Shapes Our World

The sun, our radiant star, is an ever-present force in our lives, even though it resides a staggering 93 million miles away. Its warmth, light, and energy are constants that shape our world in profound ways. While we may not always realize it, we are constantly experiencing the sun's influence, whether through the gentle glow of a sunrise, the golden hues of a sunset, or the vibrant colors of an aurora dancing across the skies.

Auroras: Nature's Light Show

For those living at higher latitudes, the sun's influence manifests in the mesmerizing form of auroras – breathtaking displays of light dancing across the night sky. These ethereal curtains of color, also known as the Northern and Southern Lights, occur when charged particles from the sun collide with Earth's atmosphere, creating a luminous spectacle that is nothing short of magical. 

While witnessing an aurora in person is a bucket-list experience for many, you can still marvel at its beauty through stunning photographs and time-lapse videos shared online. Follow aurora forecast websites and social media channels to stay updated on when these celestial events might grace the night skies near you.

Build Your Shores & Islands Ohio Eclipse Bucket List!

For those seeking a deeper connection to the sun and the wonders of the universe, Shores & Islands Ohio offers many opportunities for exploration and discovery. Those visiting our region for the Total Solar Eclipse will not only witness it from one of the most stunning vantage points in the country but also have the opportunity to enjoy spectacular celebrations, viewing parties, and events leading up to and well after the eclipse. It promises to be a weekend-long celebration!

Restaurants, museums, wineries, metro parks, water parks, and more are hosting a range of eclipse-themed activities and festivities. From educational programs and guided tours to special menus and themed parties, there's something for everyone to enjoy as we come together to witness this extraordinary celestial event.

Check out SHORESandISLANDSeclipse.com to learn more about the region and make your plans to visit!