New Moon on Monday

Much of North America held still yesterday for the best solar eclipse seen on this continent in almost 100 years (the last one to hit the States skimmed the Pacific Northwest 38 years ago). The eclipse carved a diagonal path across the United States beginning in Oregon and ending in South Carolina and even locations that were not directly in its path commemorated the moon's voyage.

Ocean tides were one of the most noticeable changes to the earth, causing many beaches to close swimming, although astrologists were also predicting big geographical and individual changes. Animals have long been affected by celestial and terrestrial shifts and yesterday scientists were ready to log all the behavior, no matter the circumstances.

Not to miss out on a commercial opportunity, empyreal entrepreneurs sold clothing, eclipse glasses (both real and fake), art work and companies even offered exclusive, luxury eclipse viewing packages. Those driving the day of were faced with gas shortages en route, and as predicted, after the colossal event onlookers were struck in traffic jams that lasted for hours.

The Next solar eclipse to project across the country will be on April 8, 2024 and from what we've learned from this year's event we suggest the following:

Decide on a location and book your accommodations now.

Don't plan on a swim.

Record your pets behavior for a laugh and for science.

Make sure your glasses are eclipse safe (when in doubt, ask NASA).

Buy an electric car or maybe in 2024 a solar-powered car will be available.

Start assembling your playlist now for the ultimate eclipse soundtrack.