Preparations underway for total solar eclipse on April 8

A business in Texas displays a sign “Totality Prepared” on ahead of the solar eclipse in Texas. Adding to the spectacle, Comet 12P/Pons-Brooks will also be visible, enhancing the cosmic display. Such gatherings of planets are colloquially referred to as planetary parades, making this event a celestial extravaganza for astronomers and skywatchers alike. (Photo credit: AP)

Residents in Perryville, Missouri, enjoy a foam party as part of the town's commemoration of the April 8 solar eclipse on April 06, 2024. Every community in the country that will be under the eclipse's totality on April 8 is planning celebrations and getting ready to welcome a sizable number of tourists to witness this unusual astronomical event. (Photo credit: AFP)

As part of the town's celebration of the April 8 solar eclipse on April 06, 2024 in Hot Springs, Arkansas, a marquee promotes a solar eclipse party. Every community in the country that will be under the eclipse's totality on April 8 is planning celebrations and getting ready to welcome a sizable number of tourists to witness this unusual astronomical event. (Photo credit: AFP)

Seven planets - Uranus, Jupiter, Mercury, Venus, Neptune, Saturn, and Mars - will be visible near the sun during totality, presenting a rare spectacle where all major planets of the solar system are in view simultaneously. A cardboard cutout of Jesus is seen with solar eclipse viewing glasses at the Carbondale Spring Fest days ahead of the total solar eclipse in Carbondale, Illinois. (Photo credit: Reuters)

Nasa advises individuals planning to observe the solar eclipse to seek expert advice, particularly when intending to use specialized equipment like cameras, telescopes, or binoculars. It's crucial to understand that viewing the sun directly, even during an eclipse, can result in severe eye damage. Therefore, consulting with an astronomer or an expert in solar observations is essential to ensure that you're equipped with the correct information and safety measures. (Photo credit: Reuters)

The eclipse has also sparked a surge in Airbnb bookings along its path of totality, with 90% of properties already booked in United States, as reported by USA Today. Interest peaked on March 26, as searches for accommodations soared by 1000% compared to last year, as per the report. (Photo credit: Reuters)

Eclipse souven_​ir buttons are sold at the Carbondale Spring Fest. Millions of people are anticipated to witness the eclipse, with astronomy enthusiasts from across the country expected to flock to the states in its path. However, concerns have been raised about potential hazards as daylight turns to darkness. (Photo credit: Reuters)

Motorists traveling toward Austin, Texas are reminded of Monday's eclipse and the possibility of traffic delays on Saturday. Daytime darkness will follow a limited path as the moon covers the sun, extending from the Pacific coast of Mexico through Texas and 14 other states, to Maine and the eastern borders of Canada. (Photo credit: AP)

Only within this specific corridor will observers have the chance to experience totality, darkness during the day, the stunning corona of the sun, and the captivating presence of multiple planets and possibly a comet. Those outside this path, even if they observe a 99% partial eclipse, will only see a partial obscuration of the sun resembling a "smiley face" through eclipse glasses, missing out on the extraordinary celestial spectacle. (Photo credit: Reuters)