We are on the countdown to August 21, 2017, the day when many people will experience one of nature’s most noteworthy sites, a total solar eclipse. All of North America will be able to get a glimpse, though the path of totality will only be visible to those in specific locations. The path of totality is a track that the moon’s shadow takes, visible on earth during the total solar eclipse. When the moon completely covers the sun, the corona, the upper atmosphere of the sun, can be seen. This will be the case on a path across the United States from Oregon to South Carolina. The Path of totality will be relatively thin and will pass through 14 of the 50 states. All of North America including those here in North Carolina will be able to see at least a partial solar eclipse. Parts of South America, Africa and Europe will be able to see the partial eclipse as well.
Here is a great article from NASA outlining the Eclipse with plenty of great graphs, diagrams, and images! The Eclipse begins at 9:06 AM PDT in Madras, OR and ends at 4:06 PM EDT in Columbia, SC. The closest the total eclipse will come to where we sit in Cary, NC will be Columbia, South Carolina. According to NASA, the Eclipse will begin in Columbia, SC at 1:13 PM, and totality will begin at 2:41 PM and last only 3 minutes, ending at 2:44 PM. The eclipse ends at 4:06 PM EDT.
Solar Eclipse Glasses – Protect Your Eyes!
Regardless of where you are, never look directly at the sun without proper eye protection. Millions are expected to witness the solar eclipse, the first visible from the United States in nearly 40 years. When any part of the sun is not in a total solar eclipse, anytime the sun is either in partial eclipse or uncovered, you need eye protection. Not even quick glances! Unfortunately, there are glasses out there in the marketplace that make false or misleading claims about the sun protection. Glasses are being sold that do not meet the standards necessary to safely view the eclipse. Here is a site that lists information on how to tell if your Eclipse Glasses are safe. Please stay safe and research your glasses before purchasing.
Solar Eclipse Viewing Parties, around Raleigh, Durham, Chapel Hill, NC
Many places in the area will be hosting events or parties, please see the map below. In Chapel Hill, the Morehead Planetarium and Science Center will be hosting a viewing event for the public on Monday, August 21, 2017. Sarah P. Duke Gardens in Durham, will have an event. A Solar Eclipse at the Park event will be held at the White Deer Park Nature Center in Garner, NC.
We will be adding to our list as the event draws near!