Astronomer explains why 2024 solar eclipse is one in ten million year occurrence

An astronomer has explained why the 2024 solar eclipse is one in ten million year occurrence.

North America will be treated to a total solar eclipse today (8 April), plunging into darkness during the daytime.

The rare occurrence will see many flocking to catch a glimpse of the moon completely covering the sun as they stand in the darkest part of the moon’s shadow.

Astronomer Dr David Whitehouse told Sky News: “In an amazing coincidence today, which only happens over a few tens of millions of years over the entire history of the earth, is that the moon is the same size as the sun as seen from the Earth.”

A partial solar eclipse may be visible in the UK between about 7.50pm and 8.50pm.