On 8 April 2024, North America was captivated by the Great American Eclipse, a total solar eclipse that darkened skies and drew widespread attention. Notably, Montreal transformed into a focal point for eclipse watchers, with an estimated 200,000 to 400,000 people gathering at Parc Jean Drapeau. The city experienced 90 seconds of totality, creating a profound moment of awe as the moon obscured the sun. Special glasses were a necessity to safely view this rare celestial phenomenon, despite nearly complete coverage of the sun.

Astrophysicist Olivier Hernandez remarked on the unique purity of the light and the corona’s visibility, while Jonathan Gagné highlighted the event’s breathtaking beauty. The emotional reaction from the crowd, filled with screams and applause, underscored the collective wonder shared by those present.

Following the eclipse, there was a noticeable spike in online searches related to ‘blind’ and ‘eye damage’ in the United States, indicating public concern over potential eyesight injuries from viewing the event without adequate protection. Despite NASA and governmental warnings about the risks of solar observation without proper eye protection, there was still a surge in inquiries about eye discomfort and damage.

The event served as a reminder of the importance of adhering to safety guidelines during such observations to prevent severe eye injuries. Optometrists warned of the risks associated with direct sun gazing, including irreversible damage to the eye’s outer layer and nerve tissue.

Beyond the eclipse, astronomy enthusiasts have more spectacles to look forward to in 2024. The calendar is filled with notable events, including the Lyrids and Eta Aquarids meteor showers in April and May, the Perseid meteor shower in August, a partial lunar eclipse in September, and an annular solar eclipse in October, visible in South America and some oceanic regions. These forthcoming celestial occurrences promise continued excitement for sky-watchers around the globe.