In the upcoming weekend, a captivating astronomical event will dazzle skywatchers across the Northern Hemisphere with a partial solar eclipse. During this phenomenon, the moon appears to take “bites” out of the sun. This event is expected to be visible on Saturday across diverse regions including Europe, western Africa, eastern North America, and northern Asia, with the northeastern United States, Greenland, and eastern Canada expecting the most noticeable decline in the sun’s size.
A partial solar eclipse occurs when the moon positions itself between the sun and Earth, casting its shadow on the Earth and partially covering the sun, creating a crescent-like image. It’s important to note that unlike a total solar eclipse, there is no totality phase, which means that observers must wear appropriate eye protection throughout the event. Auriane Egal from the Montreal Planetarium describes eclipses as a fascinating interplay of light and shadow involving the sun, moon, and Earth.
According to NASA, solar and lunar eclipses can occur between four to seven times annually, often arriving in pairs. Previously, mid-March saw a total lunar eclipse that turned the moon a striking red. Interested viewers should consult astronomy websites to determine the precise timing of the eclipse in their location. For much of the Americas, this will happen around sunrise, while in western Europe and Africa, it is anticipated to occur in the late morning. For eastern Europe and northern Asia, the eclipse will unfold in the afternoon.
As the eclipse progresses, the moon will gradually obscure the sun, giving it a diminishing crescent form, and the natural light may noticeably wane. Juan Carlos Muñoz-Mateos from the European Southern Observatory likens the experience to a particularly cloudy day. Observers should monitor weather forecasts to ensure optimal visibility and seek out locations with unimpeded views, especially in regions where the sun rises during the eclipse.
It’s advisable to acquire eclipse glasses in advance to safely witness this celestial display. These can be obtained through local science museums or from verified sellers listed on the American Astronomical Society’s website. Alternatively, viewers can experience the eclipse through indirect methods like crafting a pinhole projector using simple household items or by utilizing a colander. Additionally, observing the ground beneath a tree’s canopy may reveal crescent-shaped shadows as sunlight filters through leaves and branches.
For those eager for more celestial spectacles, another set of eclipses will occur in September—a total lunar eclipse and a partial solar eclipse, providing optimal viewing in Antarctica and New Zealand.