solar eclipse tours 2023

Pioneers of Eclipse, Astronomy and Space tours since 1979

April 2024 PROJECT MEXICO / USA TOTAL SOLAR ECLIPSE

August 2027 project egypt / north africa ​ total solar eclipse, october 2024 project  chile annular solar eclipse, july 2028 project australia ​ total solar eclipse, august 2026 project greenland / spain total solar eclipse, november 2030 project africa / australia ​ total solar eclipse.

Scheduled Trips

Upcoming tours.

Sirius Travel specializes in solar eclipse tours and tours based on other astronomical or scientific events. We have arranged expeditions to almost every Total Solar Eclipse since 1999 and our careful planning and extensive experience allows us to offer the best chances of viewing success with interesting travel experiences along the way. The trips featured here are the ones that we are currently offering or are in the planning stages.

Total Eclipse | Mazatlan Mexico

April 6-10, 2024

Easter Island | Chile

May 26 – June 1, 2024

Northern Lights | Iceland

Oct 3-8, 2024

September 25-30, 2025

Total Eclipse | Iceland or Spain

August, 2026

Total Eclipse | Luxor, Egypt

July 28 – August 5, 2027

July 30 – August 8, 2027

We have enjoyed eclipse viewing success around the world over the past 20 years. Below are some of our completed tours with their detailed itineraries.

Total Eclipse | Western Australia

PAST : 2023

PAST : 2022

PAST : 2021

Total Eclipse | Argentina

PAST : 2020

Total Eclipse | Chile

PAST : 2019

Day Trip to Wyoming

PAST : 2017

Americana Tour

Svalbard, Norway

PAST : 2015

Sydney, Australia

PAST : 2012

Easter Island, Chile

PAST : 2010

China & Tibet

PAST : 2009

Western Mongolia

PAST : 2008

Cappadocia, Turkey

PAST : 2006

Woomera, Australia

PAST : 2002

Divrigi, Turkey

PAST : 1999

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Welcome to Solar Eclipse Trips!

We invite you to join one of our expeditions to see one of nature's most spectacular atmospheric phenomenon - a Total Solar Eclipse.

Our eclipse trips are designed to travel to prime viewing areas that provide the best opportunity to view the eclipse with clear skies. We invite guest experts to provide you with detailed information, handouts, briefings, and solar glasses. You will also see and enjoy the surrounding cultures, archaeological or historical wonders, natural history, and scenic landscapes of the area. See all this with like-minded individuals who enjoy seeing these eclipses as much as you do!

All of the expeditions feature a leader with a strong academic background, years of experience in the region, and local guest experts to provide an enriching and diverse learning experience.

2025 Expeditions

Alaska Aurora Borealis: March, 2025 Tahiti & Bora Bora Total Lunar Eclipse : March 6-16, 2025 Tanzania Safari & Total Lunar Eclipse : March 3-14, 2025  

2024 Expeditions

Alaska Aurora Borealis : March 7-13, 2024 Mexico: Durango & Copper Canyon April 1-9, 2023 or  April 5-9, 2023 Easter Island Annular Solar Eclipse: Sept 27 - Oct 5, 2024 Argentina Annular Solar Eclipse : Sept 26 - Oct 7, 2024

2023 Expeditions

• ALASKA AURORA BOREALIS March 16-23, 2023
• BALI, FLORES & E. TIMOR  TOTAL SOLAR ECLIPSE April 9-23, 2023
• W AUSTRALIA TOTAL SOLAR ECLIPSE April 13-24, 2023

2022 Expeditions

• ALASKA AURORA BOREALIS March 10-16, 2022
• ARIZONA SKIES & NEW DISCOVERIES! April 17-24, 2022
• GALAPAGOS ISLANDS May 11-20, 2022
• GALAPAGOS ISLANDS May 12-19, 2022
• WEST GREENLAND including Disco Bay June 23-July 7, 2022
• Discover Hawaii Lunar Eclipse November 6-14, 2022

2021 Expeditions

• Alaska Aurora Borealis March 11-17, 2021
• West Greenland & the Annular Eclipse June 3-13, 2021
• Baffin Island Annular Eclipse June 6-11, 2021
• Antarctica Total Solar Eclipse November 23-December 15, 2021

2020 Expeditions

• Alaska Aurora Borealis Feb 27 - March 4, 2020
• Arizona Skies & New Discoveries! April 19-26, 2020
• Discover Ethiopia & the Annular Solar Eclipse June 21, 2020
• Discover Tibet & the Annular Solar Eclipse June 10-23, 2020
• Peru & Machu Picchu of the Incas September 27-October 4, 2020 & November 20-27, 2020
• Argentina Total Solar Eclipse Dec 8-19, 2020 With Optional Peru or Easter Island pretrips, Dec 2-8, 2020

2019 Expeditions

• Alaska Aurora Borealis March 7-13, 2019
• TAHITI TOTAL S0LAR ECLIPSE 2019 June 25-July 4, 2019 With Optional Bora Bora Extension to July 7th. Fly into the Eclipse path to see the Total Solar Eclipse from our chartered aircraft!
• CHILE TOTAL SOLAR ECLIPSE 2019 June 26-July 6, 2019 with Optional Easter Island Pre-Trip, June 21-26, 2019

2018 Expeditions

• BAJA CALIFORNIA & THE SEA OF CORTEZ AMONG THE GREAT WHALES plus the 2018 LUNAR ECLIPSE January 27-February 3, 2018
• Alaska Aurora Borealis, March 8-14, 2018
• Alaska Aurora Borealis, March 15-21, 2018
• DISCOVER CUBA! March 30-April 7, 2018

2017 Expeditions

• Sun Valley Idaho Eclipse August 18-26, 2017
• Sun Valley Idaho Eclipse August 15-23, 2017
• Grand Tetons August 15-23, 2017
• Alaska Aurora Borealis, March 2-8, 2017
• Chile Annular Eclipse February 22-March 4, 2017

2016 Expeditions

• Tanzania Wildlife Safari & Annular Solar Eclipse August 23-September 3, 2016
• Madagascar Annular Solar Eclipse, August 20-September 4, 2016
• Grand Canyon Transit of Mercury Expedition May 3-10, 2016
• Alaska Aurora Borealis, March 3-9, 2016
• Bali & Sulawesi, Indonesia Total Solar Eclipse, February 26–March 10, 2016

2015 Expeditions

• Lake Titicaca Total Lunar Eclipse, September 22-October 3, 2015
• Iceland Total Solar Eclipse & Aurora Borealis, March 15-23, 2015
• Alaska Aurora Borealis, March 26-April 1, 2015

2014 Expeditions

• Alaska Aurora Borealis, March 6-12, 2014
• Copper Canyon Lunar Eclipse April 10-17, 2014
• Hawaii Lunar Eclipse October 5-13, 2014

2013 Expeditions

• Arecibo & the Lesser Antilles January 2013
• Alaska Aurora Borealis March 2013
• Arizona Skies & New Discoveries April 21-28, 2013
• Atlantic Crossing Total Eclipse October 18–November 10, 2013
• Uganda Gorilla Tracking Total Eclipse 2013

2012 Expeditions

• Arecibo & the Lesser Antilles January 2012
• Alaska Aurora Borealis March 2012
• Grand Canyon Annular Eclipse May 2012
• Hawaii Transit of Venus June 2012
• Lake Baikal and Transit of Venus June 2012
• Australia Total Solar Eclipse November 2012 (with optional New Guinea Extension)

2011 Expeditions

• Arecibo January 21-29, 2011
• Aurora March 10-16, 2011
• Arizona Skies & New Discoveries April 24 - May 1, 2011
• Turkey Draconid Meteor Shower October 3-14, 2011
• The Maya & Chicxulub Asteroid November 10-18, 2011
• 2010/11BROCHURE  

2010 Expeditions

• Hawaii Oct 2-9, 2010
• South Georgia Nov 4-22, 2010
• Antarctica Dec 9-21, 2010
• Discover Burma Annular Solar Eclipse 2010
• ARECIBO & the Lesser Antilles 2010
• Alaska Aurora Borealis 2010
• Tahiti Total Solar Eclipse 2010
• ARIZONA SKIES & NEW DISCOVERIES 2010

Eclipse & Astronomical Trips we have offered:

1994 - 2009

• China Total Solar Eclipse 2009
• Winco Eclipse Tours - China Eclipse Expedition 2009 + Luxury Yangtze Cruise
• Alaska Aurora Borealis 2009
• Tibet & Total Solar Eclipse 2009
• Lake Baikal & Eclipse
• Tibet & Eclipse
• China's Silk Road& Legendary Hunza Total Eclipse Trip
• Warming Island Greenland 2008, including the Aurora Borealis
• Alaska Aurora Borealis 2004, 2005, 2006, 2007, 2008
• Turkey Total Solar Eclipse 2006
• Transit of Venus Russia & Lake Baikal 2004
• Transit of Venus Scotland & Faroes 2004
• Circumnavigation of Iceland Annular Eclipse 2003
• South Africa Total Solar Eclipse 2002
• Costa Rica Annular Eclipse 2001
• Venezuela Total Solar Eclipse 1998
• Bolivia Total Solar Eclipse 1994

• 2024 USA 8-Night Total Solar Eclipse Tour
• 2024 Chile Astronomical Adventure
• 2024 Chile & Easter Island Eclipse Tour
• 2024 Mexico 6-Night Total Solar Eclipse Tour
• 2024 Mexico 9-Night Total Solar Eclipse Tour
• 2024 Mexico – 12 Night Total Solar Eclipse Tour
• 2024 Turkey Meteor Shower Tour
• 2026 Spain 9-Night Total Solar Eclipse Tour
• 2026 Portugal & Spain 15-Night Total Solar Eclipse Tour
• 2026 Portugal, Morocco & Spain 17-Night Total Solar Eclipse Tour
• 2026 Iceland 7-Night Total Solar Eclipse Tour
• 2027 Jordan And Egypt 13 Nights Total Solar Eclipse Journey
• 2027 Egypt 12 Nights Total Solar Eclipse Tour with Nile Cruise Journey
• 2027 Egypt 8 Nights Total Solar Eclipse Journey
• 2009 Total Solar Eclipse Tours
• 2010 Total Solar Eclipse Tours
• 2012 Total Solar Eclipse Tours
• 2013 Total Solar Eclipse Tours
• 2015 Total Solar Eclipse Tours
• 2016 Total Solar Eclipse Tours
• 2017 Solar Eclipse Tours
• 2019 Solar Eclipse Tours
• 2020 Solar Eclipse Tours
• 2023 Solar Eclipse Tours
• Article on 2023 East Timor Eclipse by Mark Zastrow
• Article on 2024 Ester Island Annular Solar Eclipse Journey by David Eicher
• Article on Perseids 2023 in Cappadocia -Turkey by Daniela Mata
• Article on 2026 Iceland Eclipse Journey by David Eicher
• Traveler Review Footages
• Trust Pilot Reviews
• 1-800-276-1168

Upcoming Tours

2026 Spain Total Solar Eclipse / Aug 07-19 2026

2027 Egypt Total Solar Eclipse / Aug 01-13 2027

2027 Jordan & Egypt Solar Eclipse Tour / Jul 27-Aug 13 2027

2028 Austarlia & New Zealand Total Solar Eclipse / Jul 12-27 2028

Best solar eclipse cruises for 2024 and beyond

Whether you're in the process of creating your bucket list or you've already checked off most experiences, we have another one you'll likely want to add: watching the total solar eclipse from a cruise ship deck.

Trust me on this. A total solar eclipse trip is a once-in-a-lifetime experience — even if you're not an astronomy geek.

On Aug. 21, 2017, I climbed to the top of the Green Ridge Lookout in Bend, Oregon's Deschutes National Forest in the early morning hours to wait for the moon to pass between the sun and Earth. At approximately 10:19 a.m. PDT, I witnessed one of the most amazing events of my life while donning solar eclipse glasses and sipping Champagne on a mountaintop as the sky darkened around us.

For cruise news, reviews and tips, sign up for TPG's cruise newsletter .

This awe-inspiring experience is even better at sea. Discover the best solar eclipse cruises setting sail in 2024 and beyond and why they are the places to be when the moon blocks out the sun's light.

When and where is the total eclipse in 2024?

The total eclipse on April 8 will occur in North America, beginning in the South Pacific Ocean. It will pass over Mexico, the U.S. and Canada, with Mexico's Pacific Coast predicted to be the first locale to experience totality at 11:07 a.m. PDT. The eclipse path will extend from Texas to Maine and then exit off the Atlantic coast at Newfoundland, Canada, at 5:16 p.m. NDT.

Why book a cruise to watch the eclipse?

Approximately 31.6 million U.S. residents live inside the path of totality for the 2024 eclipse, 2.5 times more than the 12 million residents that lived within the path of totality in 2017, according to NASA. So, if you can witness the eclipse from land, why would you want to head out to sea to watch it?

First, you'll sail with a small group of like-minded eclipse enthusiasts and have access to astronomy and space exploration experts. You can also avoid the crowds and traffic on land with people driving to the viewing spots and jockeying for the best places to park and watch the show.

Additionally, a cruise ship positioned off the coast of Mazatlan, Mexico, will provide up to four minutes and 28 seconds of totality, close to the maximum viewing anywhere along the eclipse path.

Related: Travel to these places to see the total solar eclipse in April 2024

"Many people think that a large ship rocks too much to view a solar eclipse. But they're actually steady enough to do high-quality photography," said J. Kelly Beatty, senior editor of Sky & Telescope, a print and online magazine for avid sky and stargazers.

Beatty explains that a ship's maneuverability and weather instrumentation are essential since they provide the flexibility to sail to another location for optimal visibility. Also, if you're sailing with astronomy experts, they can help guide the crew on the bridge to reposition the ship so all passengers have the best views of the eclipse.

Solar eclipse cruises 2024

Only a few cruise lines and professional groups are planning festivities for the big event, and many of the cruises are sold out already. You'll want to book your spot soon on the remaining sailings for the ultimate total solar eclipse viewing party in North America.

Below are the best solar eclipse cruises for 2024.

Holland America Line

Holland America Line offers two sailings where the ships will be positioned in Mexico for the total eclipse.

The line's 14-day Solar Eclipse & Mexican Riviera itinerary on the 1,432-guest Zaandam sails round-trip from San Diego on March 30. The ship will call on eight ports in Mexico, including Mazatlan, where it will be positioned the day before for optimal viewing of the eclipse from the ship's wraparound deck. During the voyage, guest astronomer Jim McParland will offer his expertise about the total eclipse during lectures and demonstrations.

Koningsdam's 22-day Solar Eclipse & Hawaii Circle voyage departs from San Diego on April 5 for Mexico, where the ship will also be positioned off the coast of Mazatlan for the eclipse. After the big event April 8, the 2,650-passenger Koningsdam will sail across the Pacific Ocean to Hawaii, disembarking in Hilo on April 20.

University of California San Diego Professor Adam Burgasser is the special guest on Koningsdam for the eclipse. Burgasser is the leading investigator at the university's "Cool Star Lab," a professor of astronomy and astrophysics and an observational astrophysicist. Guests can expect to find the professor on the ship's World Stage explaining how to safely view the rare phenomenon — and he's going to help them design special viewing glasses for the eclipse.

Both solar eclipse cruises are sold out. If someone cancels and frees up a cabin, it will be available to book on Holland America's website, so keep checking online if this trip is at the top of your wish list.

Related: The 5 best destinations you can visit on a Holland America ship

Princess Cruises

Princess Cruises ' 10-day Mexican Riviera with Total Solar Eclipse cruise is already sold out for the rare event aboard the 3,660-passenger Discovery Princess.

Due to the popularity of the solar eclipse-themed cruise, the line added another sailing with a different itinerary — a 15-night Panama Canal cruise aboard the 3,080-guest Emerald Princess. This ocean-to-ocean extended voyage from April 5-20 will depart from Los Angeles and end in Fort Lauderdale.

Highlights of the cruise include five ports of call, seven days at sea, a transit of the Panama Canal and total solar eclipse viewing between Cabo San Lucas and Huatulco, Mexico, on April 8. An astronomy and space exploration enthusiast, Fred Cink, will be on board to answer questions. Guests will be given special glasses and also enjoy eclipse-themed drinks and bites while watching the rare phenomenon.

Prices start at $1,399 per person for an inside cabin with Princess' "no frills" cruise fare, which includes core experiences — accommodations, dining and entertainment. Fares start at $2,299 for the upgraded Princess Plus package, which adds inclusions such as Wi-Fi, crew gratuities, a drink package and other perks.

Related: The ultimate guide to Princess Cruises ships and itineraries

Sky & Telescope and Insight Cruises

If you want to go all in on the eclipse theme, consider booking with a special interest group. Sky & Telescope and Insight Cruises have partnered to offer S&T's 2024 Total-Eclipse Cruise aboard Holland America's Zaandam, departing March 30. You could book the sailing on your own, as noted above, but if you want to be part of a group of like-minded travelers and have access to special events and educational programming, it's worth paying more to go with Sky & Telescope.

The themed cruise's optional speaker program has an impressive lineup of experts, including Sky & Telescope's Rick Fienberg, whom Beatty refers to as the "expert's expert." Other special guests include former astronauts and professors Jeffrey Hoffman and Garrett Reisman; Nestor Espinoza, Ph.D., an astronomer at the Space Telescope Science Institute; Edward Schwieterman, Ph.D., assistant professor of astrobiology at the University of California, Riverside; and other space experts.

Beatty says he anticipates the group will be the largest organized solar eclipse group on the ship, with about 200 attendees.

Prices for the cruise start at $2,999 per person, based on double occupancy, but vary depending on which cabin category and add-ons like beverage packages and specialty dining you book.

The conference program of guest speakers and special events is an additional cost on top of the cruise fare. The cost for the event's full conference program is $1,950 per person, which includes a one-hour cocktail party package every night of the cruise. A miniconference option is $750 per person and allows passengers a one-time admission to each speaker's presentation.

Traveling companions who don't want to attend either conference will be charged a "facility fee" of $200 per person, which includes invitations to the group's private parties (beer and wine included) and access to the group's exclusive viewing area during the solar eclipse.

Like the regular Holland America cruise, this trip is now sold out. You can check online on either Sky & Telescope's or Insight's website in case someone cancels and a space becomes available to book.

UnCruise Adventures

UnCruise Adventures is offering a seven-night eclipse sailing aboard its 66-passenger Safari Voyager.

The round-trip voyage departs April 6 from San Jose del Cabo, Mexico, and features several days at sea, including time spent whale and dolphin watching on the beautiful Sea of Cortes.

Expert guides and fellow umbraphiles will be on board to share in the excitement of this adventure at sea. UnCruise expedition leader Erika "Keka" Hernandez will be on board for the sailing to coordinate special presentations around the event.

The ship will position northwest of Mazatlan for the eclipse, and the crew will be on hand to provide viewing and photography tips to best capture the once-in-a-lifetime moment. Afterward, guests can celebrate with a glass of Champagne or other beverage.

Stops include Isla San Francisco, Isla Partida and Bahia de la Paz, where passengers can opt to swim with whale sharks.

As of this writing, the cruise is nearly sold out. Prices start at $7,150 per person and include all meals, excursions and alcoholic and nonalcoholic beverages . Gratuities are an additional expense.

Ring of Fire Expeditions and Eclipse Tours

Ring of Fire Expeditions and Eclipse Tours are hosting a nine-night land and cruise package that begins April 1. The itinerary features a one-night stay in Acapulco, Mexico, an eight-night voyage on Swan Hellenic's new ship Diana, an eclipse expedition in Mazatlan and a solar eclipse briefing at sea before eclipse day.

Ring of Fire Expeditions has an exclusive charter for the 196-passenger ship. The memorable voyage features science experts Paul D. Maley of NASA's Johnson Space Center Astronomical Society and Michael Shara from the American Museum of Natural History. This sailing will be Maley's 84th solar eclipse trip and Shara's fourth total solar eclipse adventure.

Prices cover most expenses, including a pre-cruise hotel stay, pre- and post-cruise transfers, a welcome dinner at the hotel, all meals and an onboard open bar, complimentary Wi-Fi, all excursions and gratuities.

Passengers will disembark in La Paz, Mexico, on April 10. The tour is currently sold out, but there is a waitlist.

Fred. Olsen Cruise Lines

Fred. Olsen's Islands of the Azores, Crossing the Path of the Solar Eclipse itinerary was designed with just that in mind: to cross in the path of the solar eclipse as it passes over Portugal. While guests won't see the total eclipse on board the 1,338-passenger Bolette, they can catch a glimpse of the partial eclipse near Viana do Castelo, Portugal at approximately 8:03 p.m. (local time in Portugal) on April 8.

The 13-night round-trip voyage sails from Southampton, England, on April 4, calling on Saint-Malo and Brest in France, the islands of the Azores and other locations in Portugal.

After departing Brest, guests can enjoy an evening of stargazing at sea with a special guest, astronomer Paul Fellows, Chairman of the Cambridge Astronomical Society. You'll also find other experts on board the voyage, including Portuguese archeologist Dr. Antonio Batarda and ocean conservationists from ORCA (Ocean Research & Conservation Association).

Prices start at approximately $2,525 per person for an inside cabin. Cruise fares do not cover extras like alcoholic beverages, Wi-Fi, gratuities and other expenses.

Future solar eclipse cruises

Given that cruises to view cosmic events tend to sell out, we've also included a sailing scheduled to view the next total solar eclipse in August 2026. Book soon to reserve your sport on board.

Albatros Expeditions

If you want to get a head start on booking a future eclipse cruise, the 12-night Greenland Solar Eclipse expedition aboard Ocean Albatros will set sail on Aug. 10, 2026, from Reykjavik, Iceland, and disembark in the remote village of Kangerlussuaq, Greenland.

On eclipse day, Aug. 12, 2026, guests will watch the total solar eclipse from the precise center of the phenomenon as it reaches the isolated Blosseville Coast in East Greenland at 4:37 p.m. local time. The quiet landing beach will offer unobstructed views during the totality, which will last for two minutes and 17 seconds.

Other highlights of the voyage into one of the world's most remote destinations include glacier viewing along the east coast of Greenland and the strait of Prins Christansund; experiencing the East Greenlandic culture in Tasiilaq; seeing the ancient remains at the farmstead of Erik the Red; and visiting the world's smallest capital, the town of Nuuk.

Fares start at $17,695 per person, based on double occupancy and including all taxes and fees. Pricing includes Zodiac landings; all meals with beer, wine and soda served at dinner; information briefings and lectures by expedition teams; a complimentary parka; and transfers between Kangerlussaq and Copenhagen. Gratuities, other beverages and excursions, and extra expenses (not specified in the fare) are at an additional cost. Contact a cruise specialist for specific cabin pricing.

Planning a cruise? Start with these stories:

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October 9 - 18, 2023

New Mexico & Arizona Annular Eclipse

• Traveler Experiences

October 2023 Albuquerque Annular Eclipse Viewing Prospects By TravelQuest eclipse meteorologist Jay Anderson

The annular eclipse of 2023 comes at a fortunate time of year, crossing a New Mexico landscape blessed with good weather and pleasant but cool temperatures. In October, the monsoon season has ended across the American Southwest and winter is only a promise, heralded by an occasional dusting of snow on the surrounding mountain peaks. The distant Rocky Mountains wring Pacific moisture out of the air or block it altogether, and so the Southwest’s Colorado Plateau enjoys a dry, desert climate that favors the eclipse chaser.

Albuquerque, situated on the plateau and in the middle of the eclipse track, is the perfect place to view the Moon’s passage across the Sun. Not only does the city enjoy the dry environment of the Southwest, but it stands out with the highest frequency of sunshine anywhere along the eclipse track. Local measurements show that skies are sunny on 80 percent of October days – a statistic verified by past satellite images that show clear skies on eclipse day for 17 years out of 21. With its cosmopolitan, astronomy-aware population and a wealth of nearby sights to visit, Albuquerque is the perfect place to wait for an eclipse.

• Best weather prospects for viewing the October 14th annular solar eclipse – nearly five minutes in duration – from our carefully selected site in Albuquerque.
• Spectacular sunrise balloon ascent at the Albuquerque Hot Air Balloon Fiesta.
• Expert-guided visits to astronomical landmarks, including Barringer Meteor Crater, the Very Large Array radio observatory, the Apache Point Observatory, and historic Lowell Observatory.
• An exclusive tour of Spaceport America, home base of Virgin Galactic.
• A visit to experience the unrivaled grandeur of the Grand Canyon.

Explore these upcoming tours

Mexico’s Copper Canyon Total Solar Eclipse

Heart of Texas Total Solar Eclipse

Atacama Desert & Easter Island Annular Eclipse

Baja California Whale Watching & Stargazing Adventure

2026 Greenland & Iceland Total Solar Eclipse Cruise

Spain Total Solar Eclipse: A Feast for the Senses

2026 Iceland Total Solar Eclipse

Iconic Egypt Total Solar Eclipse

Day 1 – albuquerque, new mexico.

Arrive according to your own flight plans at Albuquerque International Airport (code: ABQ), where we arrange the easy transfer to our centrally located hotel. If you’re checked in by late afternoon, join your fellow TravelQuest guests for our welcome dinner.

DATE(S): Monday, October 9, 2023

MEALS: Dinner

ACCOMMODATION: Sandia Resort, Albuquerque or similar

Day 2 – Albuquerque / Cloudcroft

This morning we head into the Sacramento Mountains to Cloudcroft, a pioneer town that blends historic charm with contemporary amenities. Your home for the next two nights is The Lodge, a Victorian-style resort situated at 2,570 m (9,000 ft) above sea level. Set among aspens and pines with stunning views of the surrounding peaks, it’s the perfect backdrop for our first night of stargazing (weather permitting).

DATE(S): Tuesday, October 10, 2023

MEALS: Breakfast/Dinner

ACCOMMODATION: The Lodge at Cloudcroft

Day 3 – Sunspot, New Mexico Observatories

We begin today’s explorations with a visit to the Sunspot Solar Observatory, where your VIP tour includes the Evans Solar Facility – particularly its coronagraph, an instrument that blocks out the Sun’s surface brightness to allow more accurate observation. You also get a closeup look at the Dunn Solar Telescope, a staggering 110 m (364 ft) in height, two-thirds of it below ground. After lunch we head to the Apache Point Observatory, home to three major astronomical tools: the Astrophysical Research Consortium telescope (3.5 m), the Sloan Digital Sky Survey reflector (2.5 m) and the New Mexico State University telescope (1.0 m). Staff astronomers explain the research priorities of the observatory, which hosts teams from many universities and is credited with the discovery of nine minor planets. It’s also an ideal place to take in the natural beauty of the Tularosa Basin. We return by early evening to The Lodge, where you can look forward to another great night of scanning the skies.

DATE(S): Wednesday, October 11, 2023

ACCOMMODATION: The Lodge at Cloudcroft, Cloudcroft

Day 4 – Spaceport America / White Sands National Park

After breakfast we’re off to White Sands, where glistening wave-like dunes have engulfed 710 square km (275 square miles) of desert to create the world’s largest gypsum field. After lunch we visit Spaceport America, built by Virgin Galactic as the world's first purpose-built commercial spaceport. Your guided tour of this active testing facility includes a mission control simulation, exhibits on spaceflight history and more. Then it’s on to Socorro, a desert town by the Rio Grande, to check into our hotel and enjoy dinner with your fellow travelers.

DATE(S): Thursday, October 12, 2023

MEALS: Breakfast/Lunch/Dinner

ACCOMMODATION: Best Western Socorro Hotel, Socorro

Day 5 – Very Large Array Radio Telescope / Albuquerque

Today we visit a true landmark of modern astronomy: the Very Large Array radio observatory, with its 27 dishes set in the arid expanse of what was once an ancient sea. Mounted on mobile platforms, the dishes – each 25 m (82 ft) in diameter – can be clustered together or spread out along tracks spanning 36 km (23 miles) across the San Agustin plain. Data from the antennas is combined to create the equivalent resolution of a telescope 36 km (22 miles) across. An impressive feat of science and engineering, the site is also celebrated in popular culture, appearing in films such as Independence Day , Armageddon, and Contact . After your unique insider’s tour, we head back to Albuquerque to prepare for tomorrow’s annular eclipse.

DATE(S): Friday, October 13, 2023

Day 6 – Albuquerque Annular Eclipse

After seeing some of the incredible technology scientists use to explore the skies, it’s time to witness an astronomical wonder firsthand. We gather at our special viewing site to take in the annular eclipse and its remarkable “ring of fire,” when a brilliant circle of sunlight surrounds the dark lunar disk.  

DATE(S): Saturday, October 14, 2023

Day 7 – Albuquerque Hot Air Balloon Fiesta / Winslow, Arizona

We set out from our hotel before sunrise (coffees in hand) to witness a spectacular mass ascent at the Albuquerque Hot Air Balloon Fiesta. From its humble beginnings 50 years ago, the Fiesta has grown into the largest event of its kind in the world, with more than 1,000 pilots participating. After watching hundreds of multi-colored balloons rise in the crystal-blue desert sky, we hit the road on historic Route 66, making our way to Winslow, Arizona (the Navajo County town memorialized in the Eagles’ hit “Take it Easy”).

DATE(S): Sunday, October 15, 2023

ACCOMMODATION: La Posada Hotel & Gardens Hotel

Day 8 – Barringer Meteor Crater / Historic Lowell Observatory

The best-preserved impact site on our planet, Barringer Meteor Crater was formed some 50,000 years ago when a small asteroid – with an estimated diameter of 50 m, or 160 ft – slammed into the Earth, creating a depression in the Arizona desert about 1,200 m (3,900 ft) across. After an expert-guided walk along the crater’s rim, you can explore the recently redesigned visitors’ center and museum. Then we carry on to Flagstaff, enjoying dinner before our evening visit to Lowell Observatory – the historic vantage point from which Percival Lowell studied Mars, Clyde Tombaugh discovered Pluto and Vesto Slipher measured the redshifts of galaxies. Your tour includes the observatory’s graceful rotunda, which houses Percival’s library, as well as a chance to look through the famous 24-inch Clark refractor (weather permitting).

DATE(S): Monday, October 16, 2023

ACCOMMODATION: Little America Hotel, Flagstaff

Day 9 – Grand Canyon National Park

After days of exploring the skies overhead, we end our journey by looking deep into the Earth – at one of our planet’s magnificent natural wonders, the Grand Canyon. Over 440 km (275 miles) long, up to 29 km (18 miles) wide and in places over 1,800 m (6,000 ft) deep, the massive chasm can be seen from the International Space Station. Up close, it’s a living museum of geological history, with successive layers of red-hued rock dating back millions of years. Your day in Grand Canyon National Park includes some of the best overlooks – and, of course, a visit to rustic Cameron Trading Post to choose a few mementos.

DATE(S): Tuesday, October 17, 2023

Day 10 – Onward Travel

After a final breakfast, wish your fellow travelers well and head to Flagstaff Pulliam Airport (code: FLG) according to your flight schedule, carrying lifetime memories of your astronomical odyssey across the Southwest.

DATE(S): Wednesday, October 18, 2023

MEALS: Breakfast

ACCOMMODATION: N/A

Optional Add-ons

Pre-tour night in albuquerque.

If you’d like to arrive in Albuquerque a night ahead of our eclipse tour, TravelQuest has reserved a limited number of rooms at the Sandia Resort (or similar). The cost per night, including room, airport arrival transfer and tax: $280 USD per person based on two people sharing one room; $540 USD for single occupancy.

Easy/Moderate: short to medium walks over hilly terrain, occasionally uneven with rugged travel conditions. While the pace of this tour is easy, it will take you from elevations of 1,525 m (5,000 ft) up to 2,800 m (9,190 ft).

• TravelQuest, working with our partners, makes every effort to follow the published itinerary. However, please keep in mind that it is subject to change depending on weather and other local conditions.
• It is important to acknowledge that seeing the annular solar eclipse is weather dependent, and TravelQuest can make no guarantees that the weather will cooperate.

Pricing & Terms

Prices are per person in US Dollars based on the number of people in a room.

• All tour prices, taxes and airfares quoted in this brochure are based on tariffs, costs and US dollar exchange rates that were in effect at the time of publication. Consequently, prices herein are subject to change. Due to fluctuations in global oil prices, a fuel surcharge may be added to your tour fee. You will be advised of details and costs prior to departure.
• Viewing a solar eclipse is particularly weather-dependent, and as such, we can offer no guarantee that local conditions will cooperate.
• Nine nights’ accommodation at select hotels
• Arrival/departure transfers per the dates of the tour
• All ground transportation
• Services of your TravelQuest Trip Leader/Astronomer
• Eclipse viewing safety glasses
• Custom 2023 eclipse e-sourcebooks
• Special October 14 eclipse day activities
• Local guides throughout your journey
• Meals as specified in the itinerary, including coffee, tea and water
• Sightseeing admissions as noted in the itinerary
• Gratuities for drivers and local guides

Not Included

• Air transportation to Albuquerque International Airport (code: ABQ) and from Flagstaff Pulliam Airport (code: FLG)
• Luggage handling
• Meals and activities not specified in the itinerary
• Beverages at meals (other than coffee, tea and water)
• Expenses of a personal nature, including spa services, laundry, souvenirs, etc.
• Passport and visa fees if applicable, along with any required immunization
• Highly recommended travel cancellation insurance

Payments & Terms

• An advance payment of $1,400 USD per person, along with the completed reservation form, are required to secure your reservation
• Final payment, payable by check or bank wire only, is due by July 10, 2023

Cancellation Terms

• Cancellations must be made in writing via email, fax or mail
• All advance payments, less a $600 USD per person cancellation fee, are refundable until June 9, 2023
• There are no refunds after June 9, 2023
• Air cancellation terms are additional

TRAVELER HEALTH

At TravelQuest we want to be sure you choose a trip that best suits your interests and level of fitness. Prior to making a booking, it is the responsibility of each traveler to thoroughly read the itinerary, and to acquire and understand all pertinent medical advice to determine whether they are in an appropriate state of physical health to undertake the trip. At a minimum, participants must be able to climb into and out of buses, vans, and trains without assistance; to carry their own luggage; and to generally keep up with the pace of the trip. If you have any questions about your trip’s itinerary or its level of difficulty, please contact us prior to booking.

TRAVEL INSURANCE

Travel insurance protects you from unexpected “what ifs”: What if your bags go missing? What if you must cancel? What if you need medical assistance? TravelQuest highly recommends that you purchase a travel protection plan to help secure you and your trip investment against the unexpected. You can purchase this insurance on your own or contact our friends at Travelex, who are familiar with our trips and offer a selection of coverage options to suit your needs. To be eligible for the waiver of pre-existing medical condition exclusion, Travelex plans must be purchased within 15 days from the time you make your initial deposit to TravelQuest. ALL Travelex policies must be purchased at least 14 days prior to your departure date.

For more information on these plans or to enroll, click on the link below or contact Travelex Insurance Services directly at 1-800-228-9792 and reference location number 03-6043.

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The Very Large Array

(Photo Credit: iStock)

Albuquerque Balloon Fiesta

(Photo Credit: Sunde Gonzalez)

(Photo Credit: Donald Giannatti (Unsplash))

Barringer Meteor Crater

(Photo Credit: Jimmy Conover (Unsplash))

White Sands National Park

(Photo Credit: Cason Asher (Unsplash))

Albuguerque

(Photo Credit: Gabriel Griego (Unsplash))

(Photo Credit: Chris Swann (Unsplash))

Dunn Solar Telescope

(Photo Credit: Collette Travel)

Sunspot Aerial Observatories

(Photo Credit: Madeline Pere (Unsplash))

Spaceport America

(Photo Credit: Spaceport America)

White Sands National Par

(Photo Credit: Denis Tangney Jr (iStock))

Annular Eclipse

(Photo Credit: TravelQuest International)

(Photo Credit: Chase McBride (Unsplash))

Route 66 Sign

(Photo Credit: John Ballem (Unsplash))

Lowell Observatory

(Photo Credit: Davelogan (iStock))

The Grand Canyon

(Photo Credit: Alan Carrillo (Unsplash))

(Photo Credit: Christine Roy (Unsplash))

(Photo Credit: Chris Boswell (iStock))

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Future Solar Eclipse Travel Packages

2023- 2027 Solar Eclipses

SEE OUR TOURS

Please register your details at the bottom of the page so we can keep you updated on our arrangements for future Solar Eclipse Travel Packages.

2024 – 2027 Solar Eclipse

2024 solar eclipse – usa and mexico – 8th april 2024 – sold out.

2026 Solar Eclipse – The Arctic, Iceland & Greenland – 12th August 2026

– 13 Days – Ocean Albatros – Greenland Solar Eclipse 2026

– 14 days – m/v hondius – northeast greenland solar eclipse explorer voyage, – 14 days – plancius – northeast greenland solar eclipse explorer voyage, coming soon…, 2027 solar eclipse – egypt – 2nd august 2027, register your interest below, subscribe to our solar eclipse tours mailing list.

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Eclipse Tour #53 “Total Solar Eclipse”- Mexico (Cruise)

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Tour details, join paul d. maley of the nasa johnson space center astronomical society on what will be his 84th trip to see an eclipse of the sun, dr. michael shara of the american museum of natural history, a veteran of 4 total solar eclipses and an outstanding scientific speaker will be the highlighted lecturer on this trip..

If the weather in the above zone cooperates, the Sun will be blacked out for approximately 4 minutes 25 seconds from our vantage point southeast of Baja, Mexico.

We at RING OF FIRE EXPEDITIONS have exclusively chartered a new ship introduced in 2023 by Swan Hellenic Cruises—the SH DIANA. This cruise ship will carry a maximum of 196 passengers in 96 staterooms to the Pacific Ocean for our solar eclipse. Here are some clear advantages of cruising to the solar eclipse:

Unpack just once on the ship and repack 9 days later

• You do not need to bring formal or semi-formal clothes. Years ago Paul Maley established a cruise dress code for solar eclipse cruising called “eclipse casual”. Since you are on vacation and since most eclipse destination requires packing suitcases, dropping what is typically a cruise requirement on most ships for semi-formal or formal evenings makes it much easier to pack lightly for an overseas trip and in some cases, passengers have been able to carry on their luggage onto an airplane rather than check bags. Eclipse casual has proven itself to be the most relaxed and minimally restrictive dress code for such trips. No coats, no ties, no evening gowns unless you choose to do so. 

You don’t have to drive to the eclipse location and fight the traffic

You don’t have to prepare any meals

The observing location at sea experiences a long total eclipse, more than over most of the US

You don’t have to worry about overbooked hotels or crowds!

You do not have to be concerned about security issues such as those going into Mexico proper

You have free access to wi-fi onboard so if you want to maintain contact with friends you can do so without extra charge

You get to sleep at night while your cruise ship takes you to your destinations

Access to free food and drinks, all day long including evenings and night bars

Cruise takes away the burden of planning your vacation. All is set out for you to relax and enjoy the trip.

No need to tip anyone onboard as gratuities are included

Although the cruise is mostly all-inclusive, if you have to pay for an optional service such as laundry or spa, you don’t need to deal with cash or credit cards since you will be given a cruise card which permits charging purchases on the ship

Cruise ships are inherently safe environments

More than 80% of cruisers return for a second voyage – far higher than the percentage of people who choose to revisit a land-based resort or attraction

If you are new to eclipse-watching and are not sure which company has the most experience, Ring of Fire Expeditions has the longest track record of eclipse expeditions in the US–almost 50 years. See past trips here

Onboard our Solar Eclipse cruise will also be certain naturalists assigned by Swan Hellenic Cruises to be named at a later date.

FUEL ADJUSTMENT

IMPORTANT NOTICE :  As is typical for every cruise charter in advance , Swan Hellenic Cruises has also provided a caveat to the cost.  Should fuel prices increase beyond a specific index value by more than 5% up to 30 days prior to the start of the cruise, Swan Hellenic Cruises will increase prices to Direct Travel (and to you). Such a last minute increase could be caused by such things as a huge spike in oil futures or an event such as closing of the Strait of Hormuz.   We do not anticipate this will happen, but Swan Hellenic Cruises is protecting themselves in case it does.  Direct Travel will be forced to notify all passengers of a cost increase should this happen.  

THE SEA LIFE ADVANTAGES DURING OUR CRUISE

The Sea of Cortez was dubbed the “world’s aquarium” by underwater explorer, Jacques Cousteau. He coined this term because the Sea of Cortez boasts over 900 species of fish and almost 35 species of marine mammals—all located in the zone between Baja California and the Mexican mainland. 

Baja cruises in the Sea of Cortez mainly operate in the months of November to and including April, taking advantage of pleasant weather and sailing conditions. The advantages of sailing in the sea in April are as follows:

• Humpback, minke, sperm, Bryde’s and pilot whales can be spotted
• Whale watching lagoons are less crowded with people
• April is a great time to see huge clusters of mobula rays which are known for leaping out of the water
• A great time to view blue and fin whales with the season running through October
• Chances to view sea turtles
• Birders may enjoy opportunities to view blue-footed boobies, red-billed tropicbirds, pelicans, frigate birds, cormorants, terns, great blue herons, ibis, whimbrels and willets 
• Water temperatures are in the upper 70s with air temperatures in the high 80s getting hotter as spring progresses.   
• The night sky is embedded with billions of stars that you can see unhindered by city light pollution
• You avoid the hottest months and hurricane season

THE WEATHER ADVANTAGE OF OUR CRUISE*

To choose the area with the  lowest chance of cloud AND the most maneuverability  in the 24 hours prior to the eclipse, we have selected the Pacific Ocean area located in the  ITINERARY  section following this graphic.  However, you can clearly see from this image that data over the past years taken on April 8 (eclipse day) reveals the likelihood that  US land locations from Texas to Newfoundland will be more than twice as likely to have clouds than we will on the ocean between Baja California and the southwest Mexican coast!!

*IMPORTANT NOTE: we, nor anyone else, can guarantee the weather will be clear for this or any other solar eclipse; however, we use weather models and our past expertise to make every reasonable effort to get everyone into the best sky possible.

As of May 31, 2023 subject to change. The operator reserves the right to modify itinerary details for navigational and operational reasons. Please wait for specifics on excursions until the cruise company is able to define them.

For more information on the ship, stateroom photos, and more information: Baja Cruise May 2023

For Paul’s personal review on our ship, DIANA built for the Swan Hellenic cruise line: Paul’s review on the ship, DIANA. Baja Cruise May 2023

Day 1 APRIL 1 (MONDAY) - Arrival in Acapulco

As the first stop on our Eclipse Cruise, Acapulco offers a vibrant mix of natural beauty and cultural charm. From the stunning beaches and crystalline waters of Acapulco Bay to the lush tropical forests that surround the city, here’s no shortage of breathtaking scenery to take in. Wildlife enthusiasts will also love the opportunity to spot exotic birds and marine life in the bay, while history buffs can explore the fascinating colonial‐era architecture and monuments scattered throughout the city.

To start your journey in style, we’ve arranged for you to stay at the luxurious 5‐star Dreams Resort Acapulco for one night upon your arrival. This stunning resort offers breathtaking ocean views, world‐class dining, and a wide range of amenities to help you relax and unwind before setting sail.

Day 2 APRIL 2 (TUESDAY) - Board MS SWAN HELLENIC DIANA

The next day, you’ll be transferred to the SH DIANA to begin your unforgettable journey through the Sea of Cortez.

PACIFIC COAST AT SEA: We will board the ship at approximately noon and will set sail at 18:00. There will be a safety briefing before we set sail followed by dinner.

Day 3 APRIL 3 (WEDNESDAY) - Day at Sea

Experience pure bliss on a serene sea day as you sail from the vibrant city of Acapulco. Bask in the warm embrace of the sun as gentle ocean breezes caress your skin. Lounge on the spacious deck, immersing yourself in panoramic views of endless azure waters, while savoring refreshing cocktails and indulging in delectable culinary delights. Unwind and rejuvenate with soothing spa treatments, or simply find solace in the peaceful ambiance, allowing your worries to melt away. As the ship glides through the calm waters, a sense of tranquility washes over you, promising a day of pure relaxation and unforgettable moments of serenity.

Day 4 APRIL 4 (THURSDAY) - Maria Madre Island, Puerto Balleto

As we sail towards the Sea of Cortez, we’ll make a stop at the remote and pristine Maria Madre Island. Here, you can discover a unique ecosystem teeming with rare wildlife and breathtaking natural scenery. From the lush green forests and towering cliffs to the stunning beaches and crystal‐clear waters, Maria Madre Island offers a wealth of opportunities for hiking, birdwatching, snorkeling, and more. In 2010 the Islas Marías was designated as a UNESCO biosphere reserve, a specially protected biodiverse region.

In the last 12 years, researchers have found 21 species of sharks, 10 different rays, three species of sea turtles and healthy coral reefs. Whale sharks visit the waters off the Marías, and other species such as sardines, tuna, and red snapper, are thriving. The reserve is also an important nesting and feeding site for large colonies of sea birds. First discovered by European seafarer Diego Hurtado de Mendoza (who gave the group of 4 islands the name Islas Magdalenas), the islands saw use as a penal colony (Islas Marías Madre Federal Prison) from 1905 until 2019 when President Andres Manuel Lopez Obrador announced that the prison was to be closed and would be replaced with a cultural center that will be named after José Revueltas, the famous inmate. Before it was closed the prison colony was mainly engaged in agriculture,some farming, and fishing. Far from the harsh reputation of places like Devil’s Island, in more recent times the Islas Marias had harbored mostly low‐risk prisoners for whom the “prison without walls” was viewed as a step toward reintegration into society. Some prisoners were even allowed to live with their families.

The main prison complex on Isla Maria Madre is now in the process of being converted into an environmental education center, named after the prison’s, most famous inmate, José Revueltas ‐ the Muros de Agua‐Jose Revueltas Environmental and Cultural Education Center. Visitors will be able to tour the remote island jail, specifically the area known as Puerto Balleto where boats will be required to anchor to take guests ashore by tenders. The island is home to a diverse array of flora and fauna, including the Tres Marías Raccoon and the endemic Tres Marías Cottontail Rabbit. The landscape is composed of grasslands, scrub, deciduous and sub‐deciduous tropical forest.

Day 5 APRIL 5 (FRIDAY) - Cruising Cabo Pulmo

Cabo Pulmo National Park is a national marine park on the east coast of Mexico’s Baja California Peninsula, spanning the distance between Pulmo Point and Los Frailes Cap

e, approximately 100 kilometers (62 mi) north of Cabo San Lucas in the Gulf of California. Bahía Pulmo is home to the oldest of only three coral reefs on the west coast of North America. Cabo Pulmo is estim

ated to be 20,000 years old. After organizing by local community groups, the area was designated a national park in 1995, a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 2005, and a Ramsar Wetland of International Importance in 2008 as this 27 square mile national park is inhabited by 11 different species of coral. Not only is it the northernmost coral reef in the eastern Pacific Ocean, but it also features unique colonies of hard coral atop rock outcroppings that run parallel to the coast,[6] occurring in progressively deeper water offshore. The conservation of the park has been important for a local ecosystem recovery from overfishing as well as an improvement to the local economic wellbeing in the form of eco‐t

ourism consistent of diving and whale watching. This area of the coast, due to its deep upswell with the reef along the coast is an ideal training ground for mother whales to teach their calves.

Bahia Agua Verde

This morning the SH DIANA will stop at Bahia Agua Verde on the Baja Peninsula where we will do some birdwatching on shore and then some snorkeling to see a whole host of fish and maybe even species such as green sea turtles before stepping back on board. The rest of the day is dedicated to watching the wonderful and abundant cetacean species found in the Sea of Cortez at this time of year.

Whale Shark Encounter

The whale shark is the largest fish on Earth and Today we hopefully have a chance to observe these marvelous denizens of the ocean. Snorkeling and scuba diving enthusiasts can explore vibrant coral reefs, encounter tropical fish, rays, sea turtles, and possibly even whale sharks during their visit. Details about the opportunities and costs for snorkeling /scuba diving excursions will be provided closer to departure. Direct Travel will send out an email when we have that information available and can make reservations.

Return to Islas del Golfo Biosphere Reserve & Visit Isla Cerralvo

We make our back to the Islas del Golfo Biosphere Reserve, but this time the SH DIANA will anchor off the coast of the scenic Isla Cerralvo. We start with a walk on the island to see its flora and fauna. The island’s rugged terrain presents opportunities for rock climbing and hiking adventures. The cliffs and hills offer challenging routes for climbers, while hikers can enjoy scenic trails with panoramic views of the surrounding sea and landscapes. The island’s natural beauty and opportunities for outdoor activities make it a captivating destination for nature lovers and adventure seekers. After stretching our legs, we can enjoy a spot of snorkeling, our last chance to get in the water and see the life that lives beneath the waves. The island is renowned for its crystal‐clear waters and diverse marine life. Besides marine life, Isla Cerralvo is also home to various land‐ based wildlife species. You might spot desert iguanas, coyotes, jackrabbits, and a variety of bird species while exploring the island’s arid landscapes.

Mexico’s Sea of Cortez is famed for its wealth of marine wildlife, a place that Jacques Cousteau called ‘the world’s aquarium’.

A UNESCO World Heritage Site, the Sea of Cortez is one of the most diverse seas on the planet with the widest variety of whales and dolphins, and home to nearly 900 species of fish. Separating the Baja California Peninsula from the Mexican mainland, this narrow sea (also known as The Gulf of California) is home to a unique and rich ecosystem and sustains a large number of marine mammals, many of which are rare and endangered. It hosts many migratory species including the blue whale. Furthermore, its more than 900 islands are nesting sites for thousands of seabirds, and its waters are primary breeding, feeding, and nursing grounds for a myriad of migratory and resident species.

“Isla Cerralvo” to “Isla Jacques Cousteau”

Isla Cerralvo is an island that is 18 miles (29 km) long with a land area of 136.498 square kilometers (52.702 sq mi) and is the ninth‐largest island in Mexico. The island is adjacent to the towns of El Sargent and La Ventana and is part of the Municipality of La Paz. The island peak comes to 2,100 ft (640 m) and the ridge line runs north– south with many small streams draining east to Gulf of California and west to Cupalo Canal. There are many steep bluffs on the eastern side and many sandy beaches and points on the west side. On November 17, 2009, Mexican government changed the island name from historical name “Isla Cerralvo” to “Isla Jacques Cousteau” in honor of French oceanographer Jacques‐Yves Cousteau (1910–1997) who had led many expeditions in this area as there is abundant marine life surrounding this island. Due to the unique underwater topography and ocean currents, this island has become the traditional fishing grounds of the local Ejidos peoples and the island is dotted with temporary fish camps. Virtually all local marine life must migrate past the island and water visibility goes up to 30 meters making it a prime location for big game fishing. There are abundant yellowtail, golden grouper, marlin, sailfish, swordfish or broadbill, other game and bait fish in Cerralvo Canal waters.

Day 6 APRIL 6 (SATURDAY) - Bay of Loreto National Marine Park

Today we explore the Bay of Loreto National Marine Park and Isla Santa Catalina. Botany is one of the main focuses for our morning walk on Isla Santa Catalina, along with any reptiles or birds that we come across as we pass through the island’s canyon. Some of the birds that we might encounter include Gila woodpeckers, verdin and cardinals. However, a wonderful highlight that we could have this morning is spotting the rare and endemic Santa Catalina rattleless rattlesnake.

Once again, we spend the rest of the day back on board the SH DIANA and out on deck trying to spot any whales or dolphins in the area.

Just like most of our afternoons in the Sea of Cortez, we spend our time looking for whales, dolphins and other marine life. Possible species that we may encounter include blue, fin, humpback and sperm whales, bottlenose dolphins, Guadeloupe fur seal, leaping mobula rays and a plethora of seabirds.

Day 7 APRIL 7 (SUNDAY) - Isla San Jose & Islas del Golfo Biosphere Reserve

Next on our itinerary is Isla San Jose, a picturesque island oasis located in the heart of the Sea of Cortez. Known for its rugged terrain, scenic bays, and turquoise waters, this idyllic island is a haven for outdoor adventurers and nature enthusiasts alike. Here, you can explore the island’s many hidden coves and beaches, go snorkeling or diving to discover the diverse marine life, or simply relax and soak up the sun on the pristine sands.

This morning the SH DIANA will arrive at Islas San Jose in the Islas del Golfo Biosphere Reserve, where we take a walk through the island’s arroyo (or gully) to admire the desert‐adapted flora and birdlife that we come.

Day 8 APRIL 8 (MONDAY) - Eclipse Day

The highlight of our cruise is the highly anticipated total solar eclipse that will take place at our precise location in the Sea of Cortez on April 8, 2024. This extraordinary celestial event offers a rare opportunity to witness the awe‐inspiring beauty and power of the universe as the moon gracefully passesin front of the sun, casting an ethereal glow across the sky. As we gather together on this momentous occasion, surrounded by the breathtaking natural beauty of the sea and sky, we’ll be reminded of the boundless wonders that exist beyond our everyday lives, igniting a profound sense of awe and wonder within us.

*Note that we cannot guarantee the weather will be clear for this or any other solar eclipse.

Day 9 APRIL 9 (TUESDAY) - Isla Partida and wildlife viewing

We’ll continue our journey to the stunning Isla Partida, located just off the coast of La Paz. This tranquil island paradise is renowned for its pristine beaches, crystal‐ clear waters, and stunning coral reefs, making it the perfect destination for snorkeling, diving, and other water‐based activities. You can also explore the island’s rugged interior, which is teeming with rare wildlife and fascinating geological formations.

Islas Los Islotes & Espiritu Santo

After breakfast, we begin the day’s excursion to Islas Los Islotes and Espiritu Santo. Los Islotes comprises of underwater rocky reefs and two islets that are regularly used by colonies of California sea lions as haul ‐out sites. Skiff rides along the coastlines of the islets will provide excellent views of not only the sea lions, but also nesting brown and blue‐footed boobies. In the afternoon, we visit the stunning island of Espiritu Santo. We head ashore for a short walk to enjoy the island’s plants, reptiles, and scenic vistas. Later, there is an opportunity to get in the sea and do some snorkeling to round off an exciting day.

We arrive in La Paz in the evening.

This is our final stop on this unforgettable charter cruise is the charming seaside town of Pichilingue, located just south of La Paz.

Day 10 APRIL 10 (WEDNESDAY) - Disembarkation in La Paz

We will disembark the ship and briefly we will have time to explore the town’s charming streets and colonial‐era architecture, sample the delicious local cuisine, or simply relax and soak up the warm Mexican sun on the stunning beaches. With its unique blend of natural beauty, cultural heritage, and warm hospitality, Pichilingue is the perfect destination to end our unforgettable adventure in the Sea of Cortez.

For those that are flying home from Cabo group transportation will be provided in the morning with arrival in Cabo by 11 AM you should not plan for a flight departure before 13:00.

Enjoy a scenic drive from La Paz to Cabo San Lucas airport. The road unfolds before us, revealing a picturesque landscape of rugged coastlines, golden sandy beaches, and dramatic cliffs that plunge into the azure waters. This beautiful drive is a chance to reflect on what an amazing trip it has been.

Price Includes

• One pre-night at Dreams Acapulco All-inclusive Resort & SPA
• Arrival transfer from Acapulco airport to Dreams Acapulco Resort & SPA *
• Transfer from the Dreams Acapulco Resort & Spa to the cruise ship pier
• Transfer from the cruise ship pier in La Paz Baja California to the San Jose Del Cabo airport at end of cruise *
• Welcome dinner at the hotel the first night and breakfast/lunch the next day
• All meals + Open bar
• All excursions, including kayaking, paddle boarding, and snorkeling.
• Gratuities included
• * Airport transfer included when flights purchased with Eclipse Tours/Direct Travel. For guests booking their own air, transfers will be offered at cost.

Price Excludes

• Airfare of any kind
• Pre or post hotel expenses including any hotel services, meals not included, incidental expenses, etc. for which payment is required prior to checkout.
• Pre or post cruise packages (unless specified)
• Additional onboard services such as spa, etc.
• Washing and ironing service for laundry
• Cost of passports and any visas (if required)
• Medical services and fees
• use of jet skis on the ship at extra cost
• tours in Acapulco, Puerto Vallarta and Mazatlan (if offered)
• SCUBA diving equipment
• passports/visas
• Anything else not mentioned in the SOLAR ECLIPSE PRICE INCLUDES section above
• trip cancellation and delay, medical evacuation insurance which is mandatory (passengers are required to secure this from Direct Travel or Direct Travel must approve your own insurance (or international insurance if you are a foreign national)

Cabin Availability

Cost, registration, & payment, pricing information.

See CABIN AVAILABILITY above.

Payment Information

DEPOSIT SCHEDULE

From time of booking before April 1, 2022:  $2,500 per person

April 1, 2022: 35% of cruise price

November 1, 2022: 50% of cruise price

June 30, 2023: 100% of the total cruise price

CANCELLATION PENALTIES

25% penalty of total paid if cancelled by April 1, 2022

50% penalty of total paid if cancelled between April 1 and November 1, 2022

75% penalty of total paid if cancelled between November 1, 2022 and June 30, 2023

After June 1, 2023: 100% penalty

PAYMENT METHODS

IF YOU LIVE OUTSIDE THE UNITED STATES you may pay by one of these methods: 1) credit cards, or 2) wire transfer. A USD$75 fee is charged if a wire transfer is used for each payment.  No checks or money orders can be accepted! Please contact Direct Travel Groups Team [email protected]   to make arrangements.

Registering for the Tour

REGISTRATION

• Scroll up above and look at the  CABIN AVAILABILITY TABLE . Choose any cabin that is designated “ AVAILABLE “
• Click  HERE  to complete one registration form AND submit payment for each person in your party .

We cannot confirm you unless the registration form [one for each person] and payment are all received.

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National Park Tours Spotlight: Annular Solar Eclipse 2023

by Caitlin Lamb

May 31, 2023, comments (0).

National Parks , Private Tours , Scheduled Tours , Tours

At Utah Luxury Tours , we’re always looking for new ways to help our guests explore some of the West’s most incredible outdoor destinations. One of our most unique national park tours is set to commence this fall—and may just be a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity!

In October 2023, we’ll be hosting two tours to view the upcoming annular solar eclipse as it crosses Northern Nevada and Southern Utah. Thinking about joining this incredible tour? Keep reading to learn more!

What is the Annular Solar Eclipse?

While the term is often used more generally, there are actually several different types of solar eclipses . Each of the different types occurs when the sun, moon, and Earth line up, either partially or fully. How they align, and the degree to which they align, is what sets the different types of solar eclipses apart.

The most common type of solar eclipse is a partial solar eclipse. This type of eclipse occurs when the moon passes between the sun and the Earth. However, with this type of eclipse, the three do not line up perfectly. As a result, only a portion of the sun will be covered, creating a crescent shape. 

Perhaps the most famous type of eclipse is a total solar eclipse. As the name suggests, this type of eclipse occurs when the moon passes between the sun and the Earth, completely blocking the face of the sun. If you’re lucky enough to be located within the path of a direct total solar eclipse, you’ll experience darkness as if it is the middle of the night, as well as the sun’s corona, the outer atmosphere that circles the sun.

A lesser-known type of eclipse is the annual solar eclipse. This type of eclipse occurs when the moon is near or at its farthest point from Earth when it passes between the sun and the Earth. Because the moon is farther away from Earth than during a total solar eclipse, it doesn’t fully cover the sun. The moon appears as a dark disk layered on top of the bright sun. This creates what is sometimes referred to as a “ring of fire” around the moon.

When is the 2023 Annular Solar Eclipse?

Annular solar eclipses occur about once every one or two years. However, because they can occur anywhere on Earth, having one occur near your location or a location that you can easily travel to is much rarer.

The next annular solar eclipse will occur on October 14, 2023. This eclipse will be visible to millions of people across the Western Hemisphere—including a direct path through Northern Nevada and Southern Utah.

The annular solar eclipse will pass over Utah starting at 10:24 a.m. MDT and will finish its journey across the state at 10:35 a.m. MDT. At its maximum, the annular solar eclipse will last four minutes and 40 seconds in Utah. There will also be around an hour and fifteen minutes of partial solar eclipse before and after the annular solar eclipse.

Safely Viewing an Annular Solar Eclipse

Looking directly at the sun without specialized eye protection can be very dangerous. It can cause a sunburn on your eye’s cornea, called solar keratosis. Long-term, it can even lead to spots on your vision caused by a hole burned in the retinal tissues.

With a little pre-planning and the right gear, it is safe and easy to view an annular solar eclipse . Solar viewing glasses or handheld solar viewers make it easy to view the eclipse while protecting your eyes.

During a total solar eclipse, there is a short period of time when it is safe to remove your eye protection to look directly at the eclipse. This is because the sun’s light is completely blocked by the moon. However, during an annular solar eclipse, the sun is never completely blocked by the sun. For this reason, it’s never safe to remove your eye protection while viewing an annular solar eclipse.

Utah Luxury Tours National Park Tours: Annual Solar Eclipse 2023

If you’re dreaming of seeing the 2023 annular solar eclipse, you’re in luck. Utah Luxury Tours will be offering two national park tours designed specifically for guests to view the eclipse. 

Utah’s incredible landscapes will offer an incredible spot to view this natural phenomenon. Combine the stunning views with our luxury tour operations, and these national park tours are guaranteed to be a once-in-a-lifetime experience for you and your family. These tours will be shorter than many of our other Utah hiking trips, making it possible for more guests to enjoy this incredible experience. 

Utah Luxury Tours will be offering two national park tours for the 2023 annular solar eclipse . The first will depart from Salt Lake City and include a tour of Moab and a viewing of the eclipse in Moab. The second will depart from Las Vegas and include a tour of St. George, Utah, Valley of Fire, and Great Basin, with eclipse viewing in Ely, Nevada. Both tours will depart on October 12, and return in the evening on October 14.

Like all of our Utah vacation packages, each trip will include roundtrip transportation to and from the airport, our luxury tour operations including lodging, tour guides, and more.

Booking the 2023 Annular Solar Eclipse Tours

If you’re dreaming of viewing the next annular solar eclipse in beautiful Utah or Nevada, don’t wait to book one of Utah Luxury Tours national park tours! These are likely to book far in advance, so book your tour today to guarantee your spot!

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A Tour Through Solar Eclipses of the Past

• Alan Taylor
• April 2, 2024

As much of North America prepares for the upcoming total solar eclipse next week, I thought it would be fun to share some images from the recent (and not-so-recent) past of previous eclipses—annular, partial, and total—from around the world. Also pictured are some of the many observers sharing this fleeting experience, “ witnessing the planetary version of a lightning strike ,” together in stadiums, parks, and beaches.

• Email/span>

Young people watch the rare sight of a partial solar eclipse at sunset, as seen from Manila Bay, Philippines, on January 26, 2009. #

On April 8, 1921, people gaze upward to view a partial solar eclipse in Paris. #

A total solar eclipse, seen above Svalbard, Longyearbyen, Norway, on March 20, 2015 #

People watch the solar eclipse at Saluki Stadium on the campus of Southern Illinois University on August 21, 2017, in Carbondale, Illinois. #

This photograph taken on October 25, 2022, shows a view of a partial solar eclipse visible behind a bird on a tree in Istanbul. #

As the moon crossed between the Sun and Earth during the annular eclipse on October 14, 2023, its shadow darkened skies across North America, as seen from an orbiting NASA satellite. #

People take photos with their smartphones as they watch an annular solar eclipse on Jabal Arba in Al Hufuf, in the Eastern Province of Saudi Arabia, on December 26, 2019. #

On August 21, 2017, Shenandoah National Park hosted the Night Sky Festival to watch as a partial solar eclipse was visible overhead. #

The "ring of fire" effect caused during the annular eclipse of the sun over Albuquerque, New Mexico, on October 14, 2023 #

Students of the Jennings School District view a solar eclipse on August 21, 2017, in St. Louis. #

A partial solar eclipse is seen behind the centuries-old Raghunath Hindu temple in Srinagar, Indian controlled Kashmir, on October 25, 2022. #

The sun rises next to the Statue of Liberty during an annular eclipse on June 10, 2021, in New York City. #

Crescent-shaped shadows are pictured on a sidewalk as light passes through tree leaves during a partial solar eclipse in Oklahoma City on August 21, 2017. #

A woman observes an annular solar eclipse at the National Autonomous University of Mexico, in Mexico City, on October 14, 2023. #

The sun's corona becomes visible during a total solar eclipse. #

Friends watch an eclipse together on a Menan Butte in Menan, Idaho, on August 21, 2017. #

A partial solar eclipse is seen above Manama, Bahrain, on December 26, 2019. #

Visitors to Shenandoah National Park look at images of the eclipsed sun seen through the holes of a colander on August 21, 2017. The tiny holes behave like pinhole lenses, showing the outline of the eclipsed sun on the ground. #

Spectators line the beach to view a total solar eclipse on November 14, 2012, in Palm Cove, Australia. #

The International Space Station is seen in silhouette as it transits the sun at roughly five miles a second during a partial solar eclipse, viewed from Ross Lake, Northern Cascades National Park, Washington, on August 21, 2017. #

People watch a total solar eclipse at Yonsei University in Seoul, on July 22, 2009. #

A view of the total solar eclipse from a commercial flight, seen while overflying La Serena, Chile, on July 2, 2019. #

The moon passes in front of the sun during a partial solar eclipse, as seen over Manila Bay, Philippines, on January 26, 2009. #

The enthusiasts Tanner Person ( right ) and Josh Bliek, both from Vacaville, California, watch a total solar eclipse while standing atop Carroll Rim Trail at Painted Hills, a unit of the John Day Fossil Beds National Monument, near Mitchell, Oregon, on August 21, 2017. #

We want to hear what you think about this article. Submit a letter to the editor or write to [email protected].

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The 2023 and 2024 Solar Eclipses: Map and Data

• Released Wednesday, March 8, 2023
• Visualizations by:
• Michala Garrison

The map was updated on March 15, 2023, to correct times in Mexico along the total eclipse path.

• eclipse_map_1920v2.png (1920x960) [3.6 MB]
• eclipse_map_10800.png (10800x5400) [79.6 MB]
• eclipse_map_5400.png (5400x2700) [24.0 MB]
• eclipse_map_full.png (22500x11250) [138.3 MB]
• eclipse_map_full_print.jpg (1024x512) [204.3 KB]
• eclipse_map_full_searchweb.png (320x180) [116.2 KB]
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• eclipse_map_10800.png.dzi (10800x5400) [179 bytes]
• eclipse_map_10800.png_files (1x1) [4.0 KB]

A map showing where the Moon’s shadow will cross the U.S. during the 2023 annular solar eclipse and 2024 total solar eclipse. Available at 5400 x 2700, 10,800 x 5400, and 22,500 x 11,250.

Making the Map

Reading the map, download eclipse data.

• center A high-resolution polyline tracing the path of the shadow center. Region limited.
• duration Isocontours of maximum total or annular duration, at 30-second intervals.
• ppath “Penumbra path,” contours of maximum partial obscuration (area of the Sun covered by the Moon) at 5% intervals.
• ppath01 “Penumbra path,” contours of maximum partial obscuration (area of the Sun covered by the Moon) at 1% intervals.
• umbra_hi High resolution umbra (or antumbra) polygons, at 1-second intervals. Region limited.
• umbra_lo Lower resolution umbra (or antumbra) polygons, at 10-second intervals. Global.
• upath_hi High resolution path shape. Region limited.
• upath_lo Lower resolution path shape. Global.
• LON Longitude of the city center
• LAT Latitude of the city center
• ECLIPSE An array of UTC times for the [0.01%, 50%, 100%, 50%, 0.01%] points of coverage (normalized with respect to the maximum coverage achieved)
• NAME The name of the city
• STATE The U.S. state of the city

More Map Versions

• eclipse_map_simpleV1_1920.png (1920x960) [3.3 MB]
• eclipse_map_simpleV1.png (22500x11250) [121.0 MB]
• eclipse_map_simpleV1_10800.png (10800x5400) [74.6 MB]
• eclipse_map_simpleV1_5400.png (5400x2700) [22.2 MB]

Eclipse map with major cities, states, paths, Moon shadows and partial lines.

• eclipse_map_simpleV2_1920.png (1920x960) [2.8 MB]
• eclipse_map_simpleV2.png (22500x11250) [105.1 MB]
• eclipse_map_simpleV2_10800.png (10800x5400) [69.1 MB]
• eclipse_map_simpleV2_5400.png (5400x2700) [20.0 MB]

Eclipse map with paths, Moon shadows, and states.

• eclipse_map_bare1920.png (1920x960) [2.6 MB]
• eclipse_map_bare5400.png (5400x2700) [19.2 MB]
• eclipse_map_bare.png (22500x11250) [94.7 MB]
• eclipse_map_bare10800.png (10800x5400) [67.2 MB]

Eclipse map with paths of annularity and totality.

• Planets & Moons
• Earth Science
• Heliophysics
• Solar Eclipse
• Sun-earth Interactions

Please give credit for this item to: NASA's Scientific Visualization Studio

Visualizers

• Michala Garrison  (SSAI)
• Ernie Wright  (USRA)
• Michael S. Kirk  (NASA/GSFC)
• Carolyn Ng  

Project manager

• Shannon Reed  (ADNET Systems, Inc.)

Technical support

• Laurence Schuler  (ADNET Systems, Inc.)
• Ian Jones  (ADNET Systems, Inc.)

Release date

This page was originally published on Wednesday, March 8, 2023. This page was last updated on Tuesday, April 2, 2024 at 12:16 AM EDT.

Datasets used in this visualization

Dem [srtm: sir-c], bmng (blue marble: next generation) [terra and aqua: modis].

Credit: The Blue Marble data is courtesy of Reto Stockli (NASA/GSFC).

This dataset can be found at: http://earthobservatory.nasa.gov/Newsroom/BlueMarble/

DEM (Digital Elevation Map) [LRO: LOLA]

De421 (jpl de421).

Planetary ephemerides

This dataset can be found at: http://ssd.jpl.nasa.gov/?ephemerides#planets

SLDEM2015 (DIgital Elevation Model) [LRO/SELENE: LOLA/TC]

A digital elevation model of the Moon derived from the Lunar Orbiter Laser Altimeter and the SELENE Terrain Camera. See the description in Icarus . The data is here .

Black Marble (Black Marble: Next Generation) [Suomi NPP: VIIRS]

Earth at night imagery

Credit: NASA Earth Observatory images by Joshua Stevens, using Suomi NPP VIIRS data from Miguel Román, NASA GSFC.

This dataset can be found at: https://visibleearth.nasa.gov/images/144898/earth-at-night-black-marble-2016-color-maps/144947l

Note: While we identify the data sets used in these visualizations, we do not store any further details, nor the data sets themselves on our site.

The Countdown Is On For The Historic Solar Eclipse On April 8 th That Will Sweep Across the U.S. Are You Ready for It?

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How do animals react to a solar eclipse?

Wildlife responses vary from unbothered to anxious.

April 3, 2024

While many of us are preparing for the solar eclipse on April 8 with ISO-approved solar eclipse glasses and extra water and fuel, animals will naturally be caught unaware by the premature darkening of the sky. So, how do they respond?

Jacob Dykes, Ph.D., Texas A&M AgriLife Extension Service wildlife specialist, Corpus Christi, said that it’s not very clear, so, in addition to watching the eclipse, he’ll be watching animal behavior. And he’s inviting citizen scientists to join him.

“Even among members of the same species, there is quite a lot of variation in how animals respond,” said Dykes, also an assistant professor in the Texas A&M College of Agriculture and Life Sciences Department of Rangeland, Wildlife and Fisheries Management . “It may be down to the individual. Some animals respond and some don’t. Right now, it’s a question that nobody seems to have a complete answer to.”

Previous observations

Because of the rarity of total solar eclipses, determining broad animal response patterns has been difficult. However, researchers have documented some strange cases in recent years.

For example, in 2017, the Riverbanks Zoo and Garden in South Carolina was in the path of the total solar eclipse. Researchers and animal keepers observed the animals before, during and after the eclipse to watch for changes. They found that responses generally ranged from no noticeable change to displays of anxiety, switches to nighttime preparation, and other unusual responses like changes in vocalization or gazing skyward.

“Researchers saw giraffes suddenly start running around their pen,” Dykes said. “Some of the male gorillas became more aggressive. These were some of the anxiety behaviors.”

Changes in vocalization patterns, such as birds or insects becoming either quieter or more vocal, are also relatively common — though not as well-documented as changes in activity. In many cases, Dykes said animals seem to behave as though they’re preparing for the night.

“For birds, they would suddenly go to nest and then a few minutes later, when the sun came back out, they would seem to start their day all over again,” he said. “There’s no telling what’s running through these critters’ minds when, suddenly midday, the sky goes dark. Their environment is always having an influence, whether through rain, temperature, wind speed, the amount of sunlight or the length of day. Wildlife are deeply in tune with their surroundings.”

Watching wildlife on April 8

As part of his research, Dykes studies spatial ecology, tracking animal movement, resource selection, reproduction rates and more. The GPS collars he and his team use allow near-real-time tracking, with updates every 30 minutes.

Though this is a regular tool for these researchers, Dykes said he looks forward to seeing if there are any noticeable changes in animal movement as a result of the upcoming eclipse.

And, while AgriLife Extension experts will continue to collect this data using specialized equipment, Dykes noted that many cases of animal responses to solar eclipses have emerged from less formal observations by the general public. Scientists have used recordings posted on social media platforms like Facebook groups or iNaturalist to piece together the bigger picture.

“People are gearing up to make sure they’re collecting data,” he said. “I think we’ll understand the effect of solar eclipses on wildlife more as time goes by. And now, we have an army of citizen scientists contributing to our data sets and really helping us out. I’ll be monitoring social media accounts after the eclipse to see what everybody’s saying. It’ll be really interesting.”

For those wanting to keep animal responses in mind on April 8 — and potentially contribute to science — Dykes encourages people to pay attention to wildlife behavior not only during totality, but before, during and after the eclipse.

Though he doesn’t expect animals’ responses will cause any additional danger, general safety tips can be found from AgriLife Extension’s Disaster Assessment and Recovery , DAR, unit.

“The eclipse is going to be a great opportunity for science and observation,” Dykes said. “As always, stay safe.” 

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How to watch upcoming total solar eclipse with nasa from anywhere.

Tiernan P. Doyle

Nasa headquarters.

On Monday, April 8, most of North America will have the chance to see the Moon pass in front of the Sun during a solar eclipse. NASA is inviting the public to participate with in-person events , opportunities to do NASA science , and multiple ways to watch online .

Millions of people along the path of totality – which stretches from Texas to Maine in the United States – will see a total solar eclipse, when the Moon completely covers the Sun. Outside the path of totality, people across the contiguous United States will have a chance to see a partial solar eclipse, when the Moon covers part of the Sun. Learn how to  safely view  this celestial event.

Watch Through Eyes of NASA

NASA will host live coverage of the eclipse starting at 1 p.m. EDT. The agency’s eclipse coverage will include live views of the eclipse from across North America, special appearances by NASA experts, astronauts aboard the space station, and an inside look at NASA’s eclipse science experiments and watch parties across the country. NASA’s broadcast will last three hours, and features live locations from across the nation including the agency’s only center in the path of totality, NASA’s Glenn Research Center in Ohio, as well as:

• Carbondale, Illinois
• Houlton, Maine
• Indianapolis
• Kerrville, Texas
• Niagara Falls, New York
• Russellville, Arkansas

The NASA broadcast will stream on NASA+ , air on NASA TV, and the agency’s website . Learn how to  stream NASA TV  through a variety of platforms including social media and the agency’s app.

NASA also will host a watch party of the eclipse in Spanish starting at 1:30 p.m. on YouTube .

NASA will provide a no-commentary, telescope-only feed of the eclipse on NASA Television’s media channel and YouTube , starting at 1 p.m. and running for three hours. The telescope feed will incorporate views from multiple locations, and will be switched based on weather, the eclipse’s progress, and feed availability. Locations may include:

• Junction, Texas
• Mazatlán, Mexico
• Torreón, Mexico
• Tupper Lake, New York

NASA’s Wallops Flight Facility in Virginia will provide a commentated livestream of three sounding rocket launches for the Atmospheric Perturbations around Eclipse Path mission. The livestream will begin at 2:30 p.m. on NASA Wallops’ YouTube channel and conclude after the last of the three sounding rocket launches.

NASA’s interactive Eclipse Explorer Map will allow users to track the total solar eclipse in real time on April 8 as it moves across North America. Use the tool ahead of time to search by zip code or city for eclipse timing, get real-time weather updates, percent of eclipse coverage, and even a corona prediction for locations in the path of totality.

Media resources are available on NASA’s eclipse website. To request a remote or in-person eclipse interview with NASA, please contact  [email protected] .

Details about in-person eclipse events and registration requirements for media are available online.

NASA eclipse photos will be shared on the Flickr account.  

To learn more about the total solar eclipse, visit:

go.nasa.gov/Eclipse2024

Karen Fox Headquarters, Washington 202-358-1100 [email protected]

Sarah Frazier Goddard Space Flight Center, Greenbelt, Maryland 202-853-7191 [email protected]

Related Terms

• 2024 Solar Eclipse
• Solar Eclipses

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Where you can view the solar eclipse in Maine

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We have you covered if you haven’t decided on where in Maine you’re going to watch the 2024 eclipse.

The total solar eclipse on Monday will see the moon pass in front of the sun, completely blocking the celestial body, for up to 3½ minutes. The phenomenon will plunge the sky into near-darkness at around 3:30 p.m. along the path of totality. 

The last time a total solar eclipse passed directly over Maine was in 1963 .

Check out these watch parties and viewing locations in various towns in the direct path of the celestial event. Hosting a viewing party you want us to know about? Email us at [email protected].

Aroostook County

Starting at 9 a.m., a number of designated “star parks” will be open to parking across Houlton . These locations include Riverfront Park, Houlton Community Park, Houlton International Airport and a number of other locations across town. The parks will feature local vendors and food, as well as tribal drumming and Native dancing by the Houlton Band of Maliseets, and will remain open until 4 p.m.

The Loring Arch Hangar , located at 93 Arizona Road, will be open from 11 a.m. to 5 p.m., with parking available. The space will feature a DJ, food trucks and local vendors, and a chance at a raffle prize. The museum will be open for tours, but will close briefly for 15 minutes during eclipse totality. Attendees are asked to bring cash if they are planning to attend a museum tour.

Island Falls

Events celebrating the eclipse will take place all weekend in Island Falls . An eclipse viewing party will be held from noon to 6 p.m., hosted by the Island Falls Opera House. Activities will be hosted at the Island Falls Municipal building, and will include bounce houses, children’s entertainment and food. A spaghetti supper will be held following the eclipse. For more information about the full list of events, visit https://www.islandfallsme.us/ .

Penobscot County

The town of Lincoln  will host a solar eclipse viewing party from 1 to 4 p.m. at the parking area behind the Why Not Stop and Greywolf Auto, located at 297 West Broadway. The viewing party will offer food from Joe’s Chuck Wagon, along with artisan shopping opportunities. In case of inclement weather, the event will be canceled.

Millinocket

Millinocket’s  viewing party will start at 10 a.m. at Veteran’s Memorial Park, with activities through the day until 4 p.m. The viewing party, located at the park sandwiched between Katahdin and Penobscot avenues, will feature live music, local food vendors, an artisan market and a whoopie-pie bakeoff that will be judged by attendees.

Mount Chase

Shin Pond Village in Mount Chase will host an eclipse viewing party Monday, with limited parking at $25 per car. The event, which runs from 4 to 7 p.m., will feature live music by solo artist Adam Ouellett.

Piscataquis County

Woody’s Bar , located at 2 Industrial Park Road, will provide space to view the total solar eclipse from noon to 6 p.m. Monday. The event will feature a buffet at 12:30 p.m., live music starting at 2 p.m., and custom eclipse T-shirts. Parking at Woody’s will be limited to paying customers.

Dover-Foxcroft

The Foxcroft Academy parking lot  will offer parking spaces for $50 each, to benefit the graduating class, to view the solar eclipse. The eclipse will be visible from the athletic fields and parking lot, with totality expected around 3:31 p.m. Entertainment and food will be available at the neighboring Piscataquis County Ice Arena .

Oxford County

The Sunday River Ski Resort  will run its lifts until 5 p.m., with a pause in operations around 3 p.m. in order to safely view the eclipse. Tickets for the Chondola will be available to purchase on-site at South Ridge Lodge, with ticket sales going until 3:30 p.m., or until capacity is reached. The Maine Mineral and Gem Museum will host a pop-up exhibit at North Peak, featuring a chunk of moon rock on display.

Somerset County

The weekend of the eclipse will be a big one in Jackman, with the  2024 Solar Eclipse Festival spanning April 7 and 8.  As part of the festival, Maine local business vendors, food trucks and beer on tap will be available. Optimal viewing spaces include the veterans memorial park near the town office.  

The Forks/West Forks

A number of events will be held in the Kennebec Valley on eclipse day, including live music at Fifteen Mile Stream Lodge & Outfitters from 6 to 10 p.m. following the celestial event. Magic Falls Adventures in West Forks  will also be open from 1 to 4 p.m. for people who would like to view the event.

Franklin County

Carrabassett Valley

Eclipse-centric events will take place at Sugarloaf  all weekend leading up to the solar eclipse. A DJ party will be held on the Beach from 11 a.m. to 5 p.m., and at Bullwinkles from 11 a.m. to 3:45 p.m. Monday. Lifts will operate as normal on Monday, excepting the Super Quad, which will remain open until 4:20 pm.

More articles from the BDN

Leela stockley.

Leela Stockley is an alumna of the University of Maine. She lives in northern Maine with her two pugs and a cat. Send videos and photo submissions to [email protected]. More by Leela Stockley

Scientists Pursue the Total Solar Eclipse with NASA Jet Planes

The April 8, 2024, total solar eclipse will produce stunning views across North America. While anyone along the eclipse path with a clear sky will see the spectacular event, the best view might be 50,000 feet in the air, aboard NASA’s WB-57 jet planes. That’s where a trio of NASA-funded teams are sending their scientific instruments to take measurements of the eclipse.

Two teams will image the Sun’s outer atmosphere – the corona – and a third will measure the ionosphere, the upper electrically charged layer of Earth’s atmosphere. This information will help scientists better understand the structure and temperature of the corona, the effects of the Sun on Earth’s atmosphere, and even aid in the search of asteroids that may orbit near the Sun.

During a total solar eclipse, the Moon perfectly blocks the bright face of the Sun, casting a small swath of Earth in darkness. With the Sun’s main light masked, the much dimmer solar corona becomes visible to the naked eye. This provides scientists a unique opportunity to study this mysterious region of the Sun. The brief blocking of sunlight also allows scientists to study how the Sun’s light affects Earth’s atmosphere.

In the past, solar eclipses have driven numerous scientific discoveries. For this solar eclipse, NASA is funding several scientific experiments – including the three using the WB-57s – to make measurements during the eclipse. NASA’s WB-57s fly much higher than commercial aircraft. This altitude allows the jets to fly above clouds – meaning no chance of missing the eclipse due to bad weather. Additionally, the height puts the jets above most of Earth’s atmosphere, which allows for the cameras to take crisper images and capture wavelengths, such as infrared light, that don’t make it to the ground. Since the planes can travel at 460 miles per hour, they’re also able to extend the time they spend in the Moon’s shadow. While the eclipse will last no more than four and a half minutes at any point on the ground, the planes will see an eclipse that lasts about 25 percent longer, over 6 minutes and 22 seconds.

“By extending the duration of totality, we’re increasing the duration of how much data we can acquire,” said Shadia Habbal, a researcher at the University of Hawaii who leads of one of the WB-57 eclipse experiments.

Habbal’s experiment will fly spectrometers – which record specific wavelengths of light and cameras. The instruments will measure the temperature and chemical composition of the corona and coronal mass ejections, which are large bursts of solar material. With this data, scientists aim to better understand the structure of the corona and identify the source of the solar wind, the constant stream of particles emitted by the Sun.

Habbal hopes the results of their study will help differentiate between different competing models of how the corona is heated. “This light is our best probe short of sticking a thermometer in the corona,” Habbal said.

For another team, led by Amir Caspi at the Southwest Research Institute in Boulder, Colorado, it’s not their first time chasing eclipses by plane. Caspi led a previous trailblazing experiment with the WB-57s during the 2017 total solar eclipse that crossed America from sea to sea. Images taken from the jet were used to study the structure of the corona.

That time was the first the jets had ever been used to study an eclipse. This time, an improved camera setup will allow measurements in more wavelengths from infrared to visible light that will hopefully reveal new information about structures in the middle and lower corona. The observations, taken with a high-resolution, high-speed camera, could also help study a dust ring that circles the Sun and help search for asteroids that may orbit near the Sun.

“There isn’t a lot of data of the Sun at some of the wavelengths we’ll be studying,” Caspi said.  “We don’t know what we’ll find, so it’s extra exciting to be making these measurements.”

A third experiment will study the effects of the Moon’s shadow on the ionosphere using an instrument called an ionosonde, which was designed at JHU APL. An ionosonde functions like a simple radar. The device sends out high-frequency radio signals and listens for their echoes rebounding off the ionosphere, which allows the researchers to measure how charged the ionosphere is.

“The eclipse basically serves as a controlled experiment,” said Bharat Kunduri, leader of the ionosphere project and a research assistant professor at Virginia Tech in Blacksburg, Virginia. “It gives us an opportunity to understand how changes in solar radiation can impact the ionosphere, which can in turn impact some of these technologies like radar and GPS that we rely on in our daily lives.”

By  Mara Johnson-Groh NASA’s Goddard Space Flight Center , Greenbelt, Md.

Related Terms

• 2024 Solar Eclipse
• Heliophysics
• Heliophysics Division
• Skywatching
• Solar Eclipses
• Space Weather
• The Sun & Solar Physics

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All About the Rare Total Solar Eclipse, Including Where It Occurs and How to See It

The next total solar eclipse in the United States won't occur for another 20 years

Prepare for the sky to go dark as the total solar eclipse takes place this April. 

Marking the first total solar eclipse since 2017 , the upcoming event will take place across North America, passing over Mexico, the United States, and Canada, per NASA . 

As the government agency states , a total solar eclipse occurs when the Moon passes between the Sun and Earth, completely obscuring the face of the Sun. As a result, people in the path of the eclipse will experience a darkened sky (as if it were dawn or dusk). 

While there are several different types of eclipses , total solar eclipses in the United States are especially rare. In fact, the next one won't occur for another 20 years.

That being said, you’ll want to make sure you’re completely prepared when the event comes your way. 

From how to safely watch to where the path of the total solar eclipse will occur, here’s everything to know. 

When is the 2024 total solar eclipse? 

Rick Kern/Getty

The total solar eclipse will occur on Monday, April 8, 2024. It will be the first total solar eclipse in almost seven years following the total solar eclipse on Aug. 21, 2017. 

What time does the 2024 total solar eclipse start?

The actual time the total solar eclipse takes place will vary based on your location, so be sure to check out NASA’s handy map for exact timing. According to NASA’s website, the total solar eclipse will enter North America in Mexico at 11:07 a.m. PDT, and exit North America at the tip of the Newfoundland Coast at 5:16 NDT.

What is the path of the 2024 total solar eclipse? 

STR/AFP via Getty

Per NASA, the eclipse will begin over the South Pacific Ocean before crossing North America, passing over Mexico, the United States and Canada.

It will start at Mexico’s Pacific coast, before entering the United States in Texas. From there, it will travel through Oklahoma, Arkansas, Missouri, Illinois, Kentucky, Indiana, Ohio, Pennsylvania, New York, Vermont, New Hampshire and Maine. The eclipse will then make its way to Canada in Southern Ontario, and continue through Quebec, New Brunswick, Prince Edward Island, and Nova Scotia. 

The eclipse will wrap up on the Atlantic coast of Newfoundland, Canada. 

How to view the 2024 total solar eclipse? 

Drew Angerer/Getty

If you’re lucky enough to be in the eclipse’s path, there are a few things you need to know before turning your eyes to the sky. Other than when the moon completely blocks the sun’s face, it is not safe to look directly at the sun without specialized eye protection (including viewing the sun through a camera lens, binoculars, or a telescope). 

To help you prepare for the big event (and keep you and your loved ones safe), you’ll want to purchase a pair of solar eclipse glasses, which are specifically made out of materials that enable safe sun viewing. 

"Solar eclipse glasses use lenses that are made of black polymer, a flexible resin infused with carbon particles," according to the Planetary Society's website . "They are about 100,000 times darker than ordinary sunglasses and block nearly all visible light as well as all infrared and ultraviolet light."

For more details on which glasses to purchase , NASA has a resource page with vetted companies that manufacture and sell safe solar viewers and filters for binoculars and telescopes. 

When is the next total solar eclipse? 

CLAUS BECH/Ritzau Scanpix/AFP via Getty 

After the total solar eclipse on April 8, 2024, the next total solar eclipse won’t occur for another 20 years. Per NASA, the next one visible in the United States will be on Aug. 23, 2044.