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Celestial enthusiasts can look forward to a spectacular astronomical phenomenon occurring shortly after the recent total lunar eclipse that captivated many with its striking blood moon appearance. On Saturday, March 29, a partial solar eclipse will grace the skies, offering a remarkable sight for observers in specific regions, including the Northeastern United States, eastern Canada, western Africa, and parts of Europe.
Annually, Earth experiences two to five solar eclipses, which can be categorized into various types such as partial, annular, total, or hybrid. The visibility of these eclipses, however, varies widely based on geographic location.
In the U.S., this upcoming partial solar eclipse will be observable from Washington, D.C. and 13 states: Connecticut, Delaware, Maine, Maryland, Massachusetts, New Hampshire, New Jersey, New York, Pennsylvania, Rhode Island, Vermont, Virginia, and West Virginia.
Moreover, fortunate observers situated in unique locations—northeastern Maine and portions of southwestern New Brunswick and eastern Quebec—will have the rare opportunity to witness what is known as a “double sunrise.” This visual effect occurs as the moon’s outline creates the illusion of two “horns” emerging from the edge of the horizon during sunrise.
Below is an overview of what to expect during this celestial event and important safety tips for viewing.
Understanding a Partial Solar Eclipse
A partial solar eclipse typically occurs when the moon transitions between the Earth and the sun, resulting in the moon casting a shadow that partially obscures the sun’s light across certain areas of the northern hemisphere.
This event is not to be confused with a total solar eclipse, such as the one anticipated in April 2024, since the alignment of the sun, moon, and Earth will not be perfectly straight during this partial eclipse. Instead, participants will see a crescent-shaped sun due to the moon’s partial coverage, as NASA explains.
Timing and Visibility
Those situated in the Northeastern U.S. will be able to observe the partial solar eclipse early on Saturday, with the event commencing around 4:50 a.m. ET and concluding just before 8:43 a.m. ET.
Here are significant U.S. cities where viewers can best observe this event, including the expected times and visibility percentages:
– Baltimore, Md. (3% coverage): visible at 6:55 a.m.*, concludes at 7:02 a.m.
– Boston, Mass. (43% coverage): visible at 6:31 a.m.*, concludes at 7:07 a.m.
– Buffalo, N.Y. (2% coverage): visible at 7:02 a.m.*, concludes at 7:09 a.m.
– New York, N.Y. (22% coverage): visible at 6:44 a.m.*; concludes at 7:04 a.m.
– Philadelphia, Pa. (12% coverage): visible at 6:49 a.m.*, concludes at 7:03 a.m.
– Portland, Maine (64% coverage): visible at 6:27 a.m.*, concludes at 7:10 a.m.
– Washington, D.C. (1% coverage): visible at 6:56 a.m.*, concludes at 7:01 a.m.
Safe Viewing Practices
To ensure a safe viewing experience during the eclipse, skygazers should follow crucial safety guidelines. As noted by NASA, it is essential to utilize certified solar viewing glasses or handheld solar viewers specifically designed for eclipse observation. Standard sunglasses, regardless of darkness, do not provide adequate protection.
Observers should refrain from looking directly at the sun through any kind of optical device, such as cameras or telescopes, while wearing eclipse glasses, as this can result in severe eye damage. Proper solar filters must be employed with these devices to protect the viewer’s eyes.
For those without eclipse glasses, an alternative method involves creating a pinhole projector to safely view the eclipse indirectly.
Source
www.yahoo.com