"Let's Go See the Solar Eclipse"…Mass Migration of Americans Chasing the Continent's 'Red Band'

Ahead of the Total Solar Eclipse on the 8th, 'Great Continental Migration'
100% Accommodation Booking Rate Along the Observation Path

A massive migration is underway across the North American continent to witness the total solar eclipse, where the moon completely covers the sun. A "belt of lodging spots" has even formed along the path where the total eclipse can be observed.

On the 7th (local time), US CNN reported that Americans' anticipation is rising ahead of the total solar eclipse. The eclipse is expected to begin at 11 a.m. on the 8th in Mexico and continue for about four hours across North America to Canada.

If this total solar eclipse is missed, the next time the moon will completely cover the sun in the US will not be until August 2044. Because of this, tourists eager not to miss this once-in-a-century cosmic show are flocking continuously.

A map showing the best path to observe the total solar eclipse across the American continent (above) and the distribution of Airbnb accommodation booking rates [Image source=CNN, AirDNA capture]

Eclipses are broadly divided into partial eclipses and total eclipses. A partial eclipse occurs when the sun and moon overlap but the moon does not fully cover the sun; during this time, the sun appears as a ring of light around the moon, also called an annular eclipse. A total eclipse is when the moon completely covers the sun, and at the moment the moon and sun fully overlap, a sparkling droplet-shaped light appears.

Dr. John Mulchaey, director of the Carnegie Observatory, said, "About 15 to 20 minutes before the total eclipse, the sky becomes eerie and takes on a gloomy color," adding, "If the sky suddenly darkens, it is a sign that the total eclipse is about to unfold. Please prepare eclipse glasses and safely enjoy the cosmic show."

The total solar eclipse observed in Illinois in 2017. When the sun and moon completely overlap, a brilliant bead-shaped light flickers.
[Image source=Getty Images]

The great migration within the US to witness the total eclipse has already begun. Airbnb accommodations at every point where the total eclipse can be best observed are fully booked. These booking points stretch diagonally from southern Texas to northeastern Maine, forming a massive belt crossing the continent.

Airbnb stated, "Thousands of Airbnb accommodations along the entire path of the total eclipse have reached 100% booking rates," adding, "It creates a distinct pattern on the US map."

Local netizens who saw the Airbnb booking distribution map released by Airbnb reacted with comments such as, "It really looks like a herd of cattle passing by," "It's truly a massive population migration," and "It's worth traveling thousands of kilometers to see it."