The long-anticipated total solar eclipse will traverse over Mexico, the United States, and Canada on April 8, with millions of people along its path expected to witness the awe-inspiring celestial event. While the total eclipse will last mere minutes, the partial eclipse leading up to it can last up to 80 minutes, and those outside the path of totality will still be able to see a partial solar eclipse. With NASA closely tracking the event and providing information for nearly 300 cities, people can prepare to witness this once-in-a-lifetime phenomenon.
The Great American Eclipse of April 8, 2024
On April 8, 2024, a total solar eclipse will sweep across North America, from Mexico to Canada. This rare celestial event will be visible to millions of people along its path, and it is expected to be one of the most-watched eclipses in history.
Top 5 FAQs and Answers:
A solar eclipse occurs when the moon passes between the Earth and the sun, blocking the sun's light.
A total solar eclipse occurs when the moon completely blocks the sun's light. This can only happen during a new moon, when the moon is between the Earth and the sun.
The total solar eclipse will be visible in a narrow path that stretches from Mexico to Canada. The path of totality will be about 115 miles wide.
The total solar eclipse will begin at 11:17 AM PDT on April 8, 2024. The eclipse will reach its peak at 1:19 PM PDT, and it will end at 3:21 PM PDT.
It is important to use special solar eclipse glasses to view the eclipse. Regular sunglasses will not provide adequate protection for your eyes.
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As China experiences an outbreak of Human Metapneumovirus, also known as HMPV, health officials in Telangana, India have issued a list of precautions for the public, despite no reported cases in the state. The respiratory virus, which primarily affects children, immunocompromised individuals, and the elderly, can lead to a wide range of symptoms, including mild cold-like illness and more serious respiratory conditions. However, the Indian health agency has assured that there is no cause for alarm and that the country does not need to worry at this time.
Renowned nuclear scientist and key figure in India's nuclear program, Dr. R Chidambaram, passed away at the age of 88. He was known for his contributions to nuclear research and played a significant role in India's nuclear tests and the country's civil nuclear agreement with the United States. His passing marks a significant loss for the scientific community and the country's progress in the field of nuclear technology.
The recent spread of a new virus, human metapneumovirus (HMPV), in China has sparked global concerns, with reports of increasing cases among children under 14. However, Indian health experts and the Union Ministry of Health and Family Welfare have dismissed the possibility of a widespread disruption. This is due to previous knowledge about HMPV and its similarity to respiratory syncytial virus (RSV), a common respiratory pathogen. While HMPV may be a trigger for asthma in infants, it is not as deadly as Covid-19 and there is no reason for alarm yet.
China's disease control authorities have launched pilot systems to monitor and report cases of Human Metapneumovirus (HMPV), which has been linked to a recent flu outbreak. As the country continues to battle this respiratory virus, the World Health Organization calls for transparency and cooperation in researching the origins of COVID-19 to better prevent and prepare for future epidemics. Experts warn that people with weak respiratory health and weakened immune systems, as well as young children and the elderly, are most at risk for HMPV and urge preventive measures such as frequent hand washing and wearing masks.
Amidst growing concerns over the coronavirus outbreak, China confirms an increase in cases of human metapneumovirus (HMPV) among children under 14 years old, especially in northern provinces. HMPV is a respiratory illness similar to the common cold, with symptoms including coughing, runny nose, and sore throat. Health officials are urging the public not to blindly use antiviral drugs to fight HMPV, as there is currently no vaccine against the virus. Antibiotics may be prescribed in extreme cases where HMPV has caused pneumonia and a secondary bacterial infection.
The University Grants Commission (UGC) has announced draft guidelines for introducing skill-based courses and micro-credentials in higher education institutions, aligning with the objectives of the National Education Policy 2020. These courses, including emerging fields such as data analytics and AI, aim to enhance students' employability and support economic growth through a qualified workforce. Feedback on the guidelines will be accepted for the next 30 days, giving students and educators a chance to provide their input.
Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO) has successfully placed two satellites, weighing 220kg, into a circular orbit of 475 km for a crucial space docking technology demonstration. This mission also included the launch of POEM-4 with 24 payloads from startups, industries, and academia. Scientist S Somanath stated that the docking process is expected to take place on January 7, after operations at ISTRAC Bengaluru from December 31. This mission is a major step towards future space missions for India.
The Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO) launched the PSLV C60 mission on Monday night, marking a historic moment for the country's space exploration. The mission involved the launch of two spacecraft, which will demonstrate India's capabilities in orbital docking- a crucial technology for future human spaceflight and satellite servicing missions. With this achievement, India joins an elite group of countries with this technology, furthering the country's ambitions to send humans to the Moon and establish its own space station.
India's ISRO launched its Polar Satellite Launch Vehicle (PSLV-C50) carrying two spacecraft, Spacecraft A and B, to test key technologies for the future establishment of a space station. This mission is a precursor to ISRO's goal of setting up its own space station by 2035 and will aid in space docking, satellite servicing, and future interplanetary missions. The successful launch marks another milestone for India's growing space program.
A new western disturbance is expected to affect the state of Rajasthan, bringing in light to moderate rain and hailstorms on Thursday. The India Meteorological Department (IMD) has predicted this system to also bring snowfall in the Himalayan region. North India continues to face severe cold wave conditions, with some states experiencing temperatures as low as -10.6 degrees Celsius. However, some relief may be in sight for Rajasthan with these weather changes.