Eclipse Viewers Can Enjoy Another Rare Natural Phenomenon

SAN ANGELO, TX — On April 8, residents of San Angelo and viewers across much of the state will experience a rare solar eclipse.

This rare eclipse will bring along another unique natural phenomenon visible right on the ground beneath the trees. 

During a partial eclipse, which occurs before and after the moon completely blocks the sun, light filters through holes in the leaves and projects the crescent sun onto the ground.

Viewers don't need to be in the path of totality to see this phenomenon. Cities like San Angelo, where the moon will block 97 percent of the sun at 1:34 p.m., will still get to witness this.

According to NASA, if you are near any trees with leaves, look at the shadows cast by the leaves for small solar crescents. 

“As the sky grows brighter, notice the air temperature begin to rise,” information from NASA states. “Crescent suns will reappear in the shadows of tree leaves or in pinhole projections."

You can also use solar viewing glasses or other solar filters to view the Sun directly. 

The total solar eclipse is expected to cross much of Texas on April 8, starting near Eagle Pass at the Mexican border and moving northeast through Oklahoma and Arkansas. 

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