The Top 10 Things You Need to Know About the Upcoming Solar Eclipse in Canada.
Let's dive right in!
Date and Time:
On April 8, 2024, Canada will witness its first total solar eclipse since 1979.
The eclipse will occur during the day, so mark your calendars and prepare for this celestial spectacle.
Path of Totality:
The path of totality extends from northwest Mexico, through the U.S., to southeastern Canada.
It will be 185 kilometres (115 miles wide), on average.
Only within this path can you experience darkness during the daytime and glimpse the sun’s corona with the naked eye for up to 4 minutes and 28 seconds.
Cities in the Path:
Some of Canada’s biggest cities will be in or near the path of totality.
Montreal will see a short totality, its first since 1925.
Other cities like Kingston, Niagara Falls, and Hamilton in Ontario will also experience totality.
Partial Eclipse:
Even if you’re not in the path of totality, everyone in Canada will witness a partial eclipse.
This nationwide event is significant because it hasn’t happened for over 30 years.
Best Viewing Locations:
Consider heading to these prime locations for optimal eclipse viewing:
Point Pelee National Park
Long Point Provincial Park
Hamilton
Niagara region
Kingston
Montreal
Mont-Orford
Montreal’s Split Experience:
The path’s northern limit will split Montreal (population 1.6 million).
While the downtown area is preferable for those in Montreal, other cities like Hamilton offer a rare experience.
Toronto’s Partial Eclipse:
Toronto (population 2.6 million) won’t get totality; it will experience a 99.9% partial eclipse.
Residents can travel to areas along Lake Ontario to witness the eclipse in its full glory.
Safety Precautions:
Never look directly at the sun during the eclipse without proper eye protection.
Use eclipse glasses or other certified viewing devices to safeguard your eyes.
Capture the Moment:
Bring your camera or smartphone to capture this once-in-a-lifetime event.
Practice photographing the sun beforehand to get the best shots.
Share the Experience:
Invite friends and family to join you in witnessing this awe-inspiring phenomenon.
Share your eclipse photos and stories on social media to connect with fellow skywatchers.
Remember, the 2024 total solar eclipse presents a unique and awe-inspiring occasion to witness the celestial phenomenon characterized by the interplay between the moon and the sun. Enjoy the magic of the universe! 🌞🌚✨