A darkening of the sky combined with sudden chills in the middle of a previously bright day as thousands of New Yorkers gazed at the Solar Eclipse that took place on April 8, 2024. Thousands and thousands of miles above, the moon was making its habitual orbit when it passed the sun, blocking it from view here on Earth. Scientists, students, and teachers alike were all captivated by the magnitude of the celestial event. After a full school day of eager anticipation, those within its path were able to watch in awe as the moon eclipsed the sun.
A solar eclipse isn’t rare; one occurs approximately every eighteen months. What is rare, however, is to witness a solar eclipse in its totality. For this to happen, the moon must be in a position where it is exactly the right distance from Earth and aligned with the center of the sun. This orientation is what creates the path of totality, which often varies and is not always clear for people in some locations. While on this particular path, those lucky enough to be in the right place at the right time can view the eclipse for a few minutes. The light dims and the temperature cools while the sun is blocked, and for a few minutes, it feels like dawn or dusk.
In order to see a solar eclipse, it is essential to wear special eclipse glasses to prevent permanent eye damage. Fort students spent the day scouring for the glasses, beseeching teachers, peers, guidance counselors, or anyone who would be able to give them a pair. After securing the glasses, many of Fort’s students gathered in the circle to bear witness to an event that they would not be able to see from New York until 2079.
“It was wonderful to share such an amazing collective experience with students and other staff members,” said Ms. Ferrara. “When the sky darkened and the air suddenly became chilled, there was a sense of awe that everyone felt at the same time. It was inspiring to see how excited the students were about it. They were so ‘tuned in’ to the power of the moment.”
Junior Gabrielle Maurina shared Ms. Ferrara’s sentiments. “It was a fun experience,” she said. “I was with my track team and we stopped practice to watch the eclipse. It definitely conveyed a sense of community and how [we], along with other students, were witnessing a historical event.”