I Increase frequency of solar eclipses

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The discussion centers on the rarity of total solar eclipses, particularly in Buffalo, where the last one occurred in 1925. Suggestions for increasing eclipse frequency include altering the Moon's size and orbit or stabilizing its wobble, which could theoretically lead to more frequent eclipses. Moving closer to the equator could also increase the likelihood of witnessing eclipses, as the risk of annular eclipses decreases. The conversation highlights that total solar eclipses occur approximately every 18 months, but often over oceans, making them less accessible. Ultimately, the odds of experiencing a total eclipse are influenced by various factors, including geographic location and timing.
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Hypothetically how can solar eclipses be increased?
I'm near Buffalo and our last total solar eclipse was in 1925 and it looks like the one tomorrow will also be cloudy. What could increase the frequency if we could play god? Decrease the moon's size and orbit, stabilize its wobble in its orbit, etc? Without affecting the gravity effects on earth is there anyway to increase the frequency in most cities to once every 25 years? I don't know if Buffalo gets another on this side of a millennium.
 
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Once in a 100 years is ”lucky”. The world average is a total eclipse around once every four centuries.

If you move closer to the equator you may somewhat increase the rate as the ”risk” of an eclipse being annular would decrease (closer to the Moon).
 
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Move the Moon's orbit so it lies very nearly in the ecliptic plane. You get monthly eclipses, with totality wandering a little. It probably affects tides, but I don't think you get anything too severe.
 
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LightningInAJar said:
What could increase the frequency if we could play god?
Just a remark: sometime along the boom of low cost airlines there was a remarkable increase in the frequency of news about expected faraway eclipses.
So - no need to play god: you can just book a flight, as soon as the book for the date is open :wink:
 
As often happens, the great Tom Weller has the answer,
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(It's just as serious as this thread)
 
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Does anyone know the typical surface of totality during an eclipse? I want to figure how much that compares to earth's total surface area. According to the news a total solar eclipse happens every 18 months or so, but usually over the ocean. I want to figure the odds.
 
LightningInAJar said:
Does anyone know the typical surface of totality during an eclipse? I want to figure how much that compares to earth's total surface area. According to the news a total solar eclipse happens every 18 months or so, but usually over the ocean. I want to figure the odds.
The odds are not that simple. They depend on things like latitude, time of day, etc.
 

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