Upcoming solar eclipse: what will Canadians see?
Posted August 9, 2017 9:35 am.
Last Updated August 14, 2017 11:52 am.
This article is more than 5 years old.
VANCOUVER (NEWS 1130) – A total solar eclipse is not typically visible from Vancouver, however, you can probably see most of it later this month. Take a look at our mini guide below.
What is a solar eclipse?
A solar eclipse occurs when the moon comes between earth and the sun, and casts a shadow that blocks the sun’s earth for a time. Because the moon and earths orbits don’t match perfectly, it’s rare for the moon to completely eclipse the sun. When it does happen, the darkest part of the shadow — the umbra — is what causes a total eclipse. It casts what is known as the ‘path of totality.’ It’s about 100 km wide, so people along this path will get to witness the rare sight: a total eclipse of the sun.
What will Canadians see of the eclipse?
As the eclipse makes its way from coast to coast across the United States, there is no part of Canada where the sun will be completely eclipsed. Those living in Victoria will have the best experience, though, with 91 per cent of the sun blocked by the moon, followed by people in Vancouver (88 per cent) and Calgary (81 per cent).
Those on the east coast and in Northern Canada won’t see as much of the rare event, but will still get a glimpse. For people in St. John’s, the eclipse will cover only 43 per cent of the sun, while for Halifax and Whitehorse it will be 58 per cent.
According to NASA, the only safe way to look directly at the uneclipsed or partially eclipsed sun is thorough special-purpose solar filters. Homemade or regular sunglasses won’t be enough. Click here for more information.
