News Story: Total Eclipse on April 8, 2024

A total eclipse occurs when the moon passes exactly between the Earth and the sun, casting a shadow. It will last for a few minutes as the sky around begins to darken, imitating nighttime. This will be the last total eclipse until 2024. 

Viewing the total eclipse without any protection can lead to blindness, which is why it is important to wear special eclipse glasses during the entirety of the total eclipse. cameras also require a special eclipse lens to take pictures.

Al-Bukhari (1041) and Muslim (911) narrated that Abu Mas`ud Al-Ansari (may Allah be pleased with him) said: The Messenger of Allah (blessings and peace of Allah be upon him) said: “The sun and the moon are two of the signs of Allah by means of which Allah creates fear in His slaves. They do not become eclipsed for the death of any person. If you see anything happen to them, then pray and call upon Allah until you are relieved of that.” It is sunnah to pray Salat Al-Kusuf when there is a solar eclipse.

Source: https://www.cbsnews.com/amp/news/what-happens-during-a-solar-eclipse/

Learn more about Salat al-Kusuf: https://islamqa.info/amp/en/answers/6111