Total Solar Eclipse to Darken North American Skies on April 8
A total solar eclipse is about to change the sky’s landscape across a vast area of North America on Monday, April 8. However, those in Metro Vancouver may not witness the full spectacle.
Partial Eclipse in Metro Vancouver
In some sections of the continent, the sky will go entirely dark as the moon obscures the sun. In the Greater Vancouver area, just about 17% of the sun will be eclipsed, according to H.R. MacMillan Space Centre astronomer Marley Leacock. The partial solar eclipse will commence at 10:43 a.m., attain its peak coverage at 11:30 a.m., and conclude at 12:20 p.m. The entire event will span one hour and 37 minutes.
Eclipse Viewing Tips and Warnings
Watching a solar eclipse involves certain precautions to avoid damaging the eyes. “You need special viewing glasses to observe the event directly, otherwise, you will have to use an indirect method like a pinhole projector,” Leacock warns. Regular glasses or sunglasses do not provide adequate protection. NASA recommends the use of solar viewing glasses or a safe handheld solar viewer, compliant with the ISO 12312-2 international standard.
Calling North American Sky-Watchers
For those who want to watch the total solar eclipse but live in Metro Vancouver, there’s good news. NASA’s map indicates the areas that will experience a total eclipse, with the prime zone extending from Texas to Maine, including parts of Mexico and northeastern Canada. To catch the spectacle, plan your journey to these prime spots along the eclipse’s path, with affordable flights available from Vancouver International Airport to New York, Montreal, and Texas.
Looking Forward
Total solar eclipses occur every couple of years, often visible in remote areas like the South Pacific or Antarctic. The next one is set for 2026 and will be visible in areas of Greenland, Iceland, and Spain. There will be two more in North America – in 2033 and 2044, respectively. However, another U.S. eclipse spanning coast to coast won’t happen until 2045. It’s time to mark your calendars!
