New Yorkers are preparing up for an exciting solar event on Monday, April 8. For the first time in years, residents can experience a rare total solar eclipse.
What is a solar eclipse?
A solar eclipse occurs when the moon passes between the Sun and Earth. This blocks the sunlight and casts a shadow across the Earth’s surface. This celestial event creates a temporary darkness during the day as the moon obscures the sun. This marvel captivates its viewers with an awe-inspiring display of cosmic alignment.
The last eclipse event in 2017 offered only about 75% totality. The totality range refers to the geographic area where observers can experience the complete obscuration of the sun. And while this year those of us in Westchester County only enjoy being in the 90% totality range, northern parts of the state will be in the path of full totality. New York last experienced a 100% total solar eclipse in 1925.
How and when to view this eclipse
Due to the shifting of the time by eight hours every cycle, this means that eclipses will show up in different locations each time, due to the Earth’s 24-hour rotation cycle. The eclipse is set to last only two hours and thirty minutes, beginning just after 2pm. Maximum coverage will be visible just before 3:30pm, and the eclipse concludes at roughly 4:30pm.
Regardless of the totality percentage, this rare occurrence promises to attract a myriad of viewers. Residents who plan on viewing the celestial phenomenon are being cautioned on how to prepare for proper viewing means. Experts agree that proper eye protection is extremely important due to risk of eye damage from intense sunlight exposure.
Astronomer and health professionals warn spectators to be mindful of what type of glasses they obtain for the eclipse viewing. In particular, be sure that eyewear is ISO certified 12312-2. While it is quite easy for people to obtain glasses online like here on Amazon, residents have also been able to get protective eyewear from the Yonkers Public Library.
Be sure that you are one of the many planning to enjoy this rare celestial occurrence. Otherwise, your next chance to view a total solar eclipse in New York won’t be until the year 2079.
