Where can I see the solar eclipse? Where to go locally to see the April 8 event
FRAMINGHAM — The last chance to see a total solar eclipse in the United States for two decades takes place April 8.
A total solar eclipse — which occurs when the moon moves directly in the path of the sun, blocking light coming from it and appearing to cover it entirely — is a rare astronomical event. The last solar eclipse visible from the U.S. happened in 2017, but the next one expected to be visible within the contiguous United States doesn't occur until 2044.
"A solar eclipse happens when the path of the moon passes in front of the sun as viewed from Earth," said Kristin Chon, an assistant professor of astronomy at Framingham State University. "That leads to a shadow falling on Earth, producing a thin line across the Earth, causing a total eclipse for anyone viewing from right in that line."
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Unlike the 2017 eclipse, next month's event is expected to be visible throughout New England. While the "path of totality" — the strip of the U.S. that will experience a total eclipse — lies a few hours north of MetroWest, experts believe that even here, residents will be able to witness about 90% of the sun being blocked by the moon.
"In Framingham, we will have about 93% of the sun being obscured, although that 7% of the sun is still going to provide a lot of light," Chon said. "If you are not paying attention at the right time, you won't notice it, but you will still be able to see something in MetroWest."
The April 8 eclipse will only last for a few minutes, and is expected to begin near MetroWest at about 3:25 p.m.
How can I see the eclipse?
As long as you have a clear view of the sun, you should be able to see the eclipse as it happens.
"You really just need a clear view of the sun — you don't need to be anywhere special to be able to appreciate it," Chon said. "I recommend making sure the day before that wherever you plan on looking, you have a clear view of the sun from that spot at that time."
Of course, if the weather doesn't cooperate, and conditions are cloudy or overcast, you won't be able to see much, she added.
Where to find special glasses needed for viewing the eclipse
If you are planning to look directly at the eclipse, you will need to have a pair of glasses to avoid potentially suffering damage to your retinas, a condition known as solar retinopathy.
There are special glasses that only let in a very small percentage of light. They can be purchased from a variety of places both online and in person in the weeks and days leading up to the eclipse. However, purchasers should be on the lookout for fake glasses that will not perform the task of the real ones, a trend that emerged during the 2017 eclipse.
The American Astronomical Society has a list online of reputable glasses retailers. Options include purchasing glasses online at daystarfilters.com, eclipseglasses.com or rainbowsymphony.com. Retail chains, including Staples, Lowe's and Walmart also carry eclipse-viewing glasses.
Local places where you can view the eclipse
Because the eclipse can be viewed from anywhere that offers a clear view of the sun, there's not really a place in MetroWest that's better than any other. But large parking lots, open fields and backyards are all options for anyone looking to get a glimpse.
The Christa McAuliffe Center for Integrated Science Learning at Framingham State University is hosting an eclipse viewing party on April 8. The Worcester Ecotarium is also hosting a viewing party, as well as offering free admission that day.
Where to go to witness a total eclipse
Because views of the total eclipse can be achieved less than 200 miles north of MetroWest, many locals will be tempted to make the drive to Northern New England. The path of totality starts in Northern Maine, near Presque Isle, then heads southwest through northern New Hampshire and into Vermont.
There are places in Northern New England holding special events for the occasion. Burlington, Vermont, will host numerous events throughout the weekend leading up to the eclipse (which occurs on a Monday). Sunday River Ski Resort in Newry, Maine, and Sugarloaf in Carrabassett Valley, Maine, are also hosting events.
Major cities throughout the U.S. and Canada that are in the path of totality include Montreal, Buffalo, Cleveland, Indianapolis, Dallas, Austin and San Antonio.
This article originally appeared on MetroWest Daily News: How and where to see the solar eclipse in MetroWest on April 8
