Categories: Lifestyle

Here’s how to watch next week’s annular solar eclipse in Toronto

Photo via IgorZh / Shutterstock.com

Sometimes all you need for a little entertainment and wonder is to look up to the sky. Next week, Torontonians can do just that, as we witness the beauty of an annular solar eclipse. This approximately once-in-six-months occasion is a chance for early risers to admire a magical little show put on by the universe.

An annular solar eclipse is a little different from a regular solar eclipse. In a total solar eclipse, the moon completely covers the sun. That won’t be the case next week. Instead, the moon will only partially block the light of the sun, creating what can only be described as a “ring of fire” effect. Seriously, this thing’s going to be epic.

Artist’s rendition of a total solar eclipse via © Canadian Space Agency

Of course, like any solar event, it’ll only be visible from certain angles and at certain times. According to The Farmers’ Almanac, the path of annularity will make this eclipse most ideally viewed within a crescent-shaped path on the map; from the northern region of Pangnirtung, Nunavut, through northern Quebec and Ontario, and even a little bit in the States. Other cities and towns all over the country will be able to catch various angles of the event.

Here in Toronto, we’ll get a partial view of all the action. Folks can look to the sky at 5:40 AM EDT to catch about 86% of the sun’s diameter eclipsed by the moon. Even if it’s not the full ring of fire, it’ll still be quite the sight to see!

So mark your calendars and set your alarm clocks, Toronto! We can’t think of a better way to start your day than with a cup of coffee and this gorgeous solar show.