American Eclipse (book)

American Eclipse: A Nation's Race to Catch the Shadow of the Moon and Win the Glory of the World is a non-fiction book written by David Baron and published in 2017. The book recounts the story of the 1878 total solar eclipse and the various expeditions organized to observe it across the American West. It details the scientific importance of the eclipse for confirming or refuting theories about the sun's composition, the existence of Vulcan (a hypothetical planet thought to orbit closer to the sun than Mercury), and the nature of the solar corona.

The narrative focuses on several prominent figures involved in the eclipse observations, including Thomas Edison, James Craig Watson, and Maria Mitchell. Baron explores their personal motivations, scientific rivalries, and the challenges they faced in conducting research in the largely uncharted territories of the American West.

The book also highlights the broader cultural context of the late 19th century, including the burgeoning scientific community, the expansion of the railroad, and the growing American interest in astronomy. It emphasizes the eclipse's significance as a moment of national pride and scientific ambition, aiming to establish America as a leader in astronomical research on a global stage. The book received positive reviews for its engaging storytelling and historical accuracy.