Environment & Science / 09 April 2024
Total eclipse of the (tortoise) heart
Millions of North Americans have witnessed a 4-minute total solar eclipse early today. Huge crowds turned out for the extremely rare event, prompting some cities to declare a state of emergency, but only the clouds created havoc for sky-gazers as they were plunged into temporary darkness. Researchers carried out scientific experiments, including peering into space with massive cameras to glimpse the Sun’s atmosphere. And people watching along the path of totality were urged to wear special glasses to avoid damaging their eyes. Elsewhere, academics watched animals in zoos – that might sound a bit weird but during the 2017 eclipse, giant Galapagos tortoises suddenly started mating… And in less fruitful endeavours, the phenomenon sparked an array of conspiracy theories and some excellent memes…
Know someone who'd be interested in this story? Click to share...
The Squiz Today
Your shortcut to being informed, we've got your news needs covered.
Also Making News
Get the Squiz Today newsletter
Quick, agenda-free news that doesn't take itself too seriously. Get on it.