The next solar eclipse in Canada is coming up on Monday, April 8th, and while it might be harder for the western provinces to catch the rare solar event in action, it’s still possible! In Vancouver, there are a couple of viewing events taking place with special eclipse glasses available.
According to the H.R. MacMillan Space Centre, a partial solar eclipse will be visible in Vancouver starting at 10:43 am, with 27.8% of the sun covered by the moon. The space centre will be hosting an event with viewing glasses available at their front desk by donation.
Visitors can also witness the total solar eclipse visible in other parts of the country in the centre’s auditorium, where it will be streamed.
“A total solar eclipse happens when the Moon passes between the Sun and Earth, completely blocking the face of the Sun,” says NASA. As a result, “the sky will darken as if it were dawn or dusk.”
NASA reminds viewers that those looking directly at the sun – even through binoculars, a telescope, or a camera lens – can instantly receive “severe eye injury,” so make sure you’re using protective solar eclipse eyewear!
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Looking for another viewing event in Vancouver? The SFU Trottier Observatory will have solar telescopes set up for the public to use, as well as eclipse glasses free of charge.
Note that viewing of the eclipse will be weather-dependent – but as of now, it looks like we’ll have relatively clear skies!
H.R. MacMillan Space Centre
Where:Â 1100 Chestnut Street
Cost: Free admission, glasses available by donation
SFU Trottier Observatory
When:Â Monday, April 8th
Where:Â 643A Science Road, Burnaby
Cost: Free
So there you have it, Vancouver! Time to snag some solar eclipse glasses and hope for good weather!
