The Path of Totality

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Exactly one month from today, a total solar eclipse will sweep its way across the United States.

I first read about this eclipse back in the 1970s at Audubon Elementary School in Baton Rouge, Louisiana. I made a pledge to myself that I would see the total eclipse when it happened, and after all these decades, it’s just about here.

Of course, I’m somewhat possessive about this eclipse, because it’s been in the back of my mind since Jimmy Carter was in office, and these days some people are just finding out about it. Feh! Where have you people been? In any case, it’s said this will be the most-watched eclipse in human history and may also be the largest human migration in human history (since so many people are within driving distance of the totality):

The 21st of August is on a Monday, so I plan to be in the wilds of Oregon to see it on that day, ignoring the markets. (Pro tip to terrorists: it would be a fantastic day to launch an attack, because the whole nation will be looking skyward).

You might want to check out this completely cool tool that shows all the eclipses in your lifetime and where they’ll be. The next really good eclipse is going to be in 2045 (only God knows what the earth will be like by then, although I suspect Yellen will still be in office proposing QE892).

I’ve never seen a total eclipse, but I’ve heard it can be a transcendent experience. See you all there in a month’s time!