What time to watch the solar eclipse 2024 on Long Island

Isabel Keane
·2 min read

The sun will soon stop shining on Long Island.

At least it will for a few minutes as the moon makes its way between the sun and the Earth, causing a partial solar eclipse to be visible in the tri-state area.

While downstate New Yorkers won’t be fortunate enough to witness a total solar eclipse this afternoon, the eclipse should be visible in Nassau and Suffolk counties in about 90% totality just before 3:30 p.m.

The partial solar eclipse can be viewed on Long Island starting around 2:10 p.m. this afternoon. Matthew McDermott
The partial solar eclipse can be viewed on Long Island starting around 2:10 p.m. this afternoon. Matthew McDermott

The New York metro region won’t see another total eclipse until 2079.

Best time to view the eclipse on Long Island?

Folks on Long Island will be able to take in the spectacle starting around 2:10 p.m. — with the eclipse lasting until 4:36 p.m., according to NASA.

A third of the moon will be blocked off to spectators just before 3 p.m. and by 3:25 p.m., the sun will be 90% covered by the moon.

By 4:36 p.m., the moon will have completely drifted northward, revealing the sun once again.

Where can you view the eclipse?

There will be eclipse viewing parties across Long Island on Monday, including at Hofstra University, SUNY Old Westbury and Jones Beach.

State parks like Sunken Meadow State Park, Heckscher State Park, and Hallock State Park Preserve, will also have viewing parties. Free glasses will be handed out

Between 3 p.m. and 3:25 p.m. the sun will be 90% covered by the moon. REUTERS
Between 3 p.m. and 3:25 p.m. the sun will be 90% covered by the moon. REUTERS

The Cradle of Aviation Museum in Uniondale is having a viewing party for families that includes hands-on activities for children. A pair of solar eclipse glasses will be provided with admission to the museum.

The Long Island Explorium is also hosting a solar eclipse viewing party from 1 to 5 p.m. Tickets are limited and costs $10 per person. Admission comes with a pair of eclipse glasses.

Where can you get glasses?

While Long Island is not in the path of totality and will not experience a total eclipse, those looking to watch the spectacle unfold must wear special glasses to shield their eyes from the sun.

Experts have advised people to wear special protective glasses while viewing the eclipse. Matthew McDermott
Experts have advised people to wear special protective glasses while viewing the eclipse. Matthew McDermott

Plenty of places across Nassau and Suffolk counties are offering free eclipse glasses, including all Warby Parker locations, as well as many local libraries, including the East Hampton Library and the Long Beach Library.

Gov. Kathy Hochul also announced the state would distribute limited edition “I Love NY” eclipse glasses at several locations across the state, including at the Long Island Welcome Center on the Long Island Expressway Eastbound in Dix Hills.