Abstract 

This project explored the social and emotional impacts of experiencing a total solar eclipse, either alone or with others. In Study 1, participants completed an online survey shortly after the April 8, 2024 eclipse. Studies 2 and 3 involved pre- and post-test online measures of participants' emotional states before and after viewing the eclipse. Overall, those who witnessed the eclipse reported moderate levels of self-transcendent emotions such as awe, gratitude, and elevation. Across all samples, participants who viewed the eclipse with others experienced higher positive emotions, including awe, compared to those who viewed it alone. Importantly, there were no pre-test differences in self-reported awe or affect/mood that could explain these findings. Thus, we cautiously conclude that witnessing a total solar eclipse can evoke self-transcendent emotions, and viewing it with others enhances this positive emotional experience.