It’s almost time! Here’s where & when you can view the solar eclipse in Calgary

The big day is finally here! After much anticipation, the solar eclipse will take Calgary by storm, but there are a few things you need to know before it all goes down.

First and foremost, you’ll need to know when you can view the celestial event!

If you’re among the many who have a busy work day ahead, you’re in luck, because you might be able to check it out on your lunch break.

According to Time and Date, the solar eclipse will begin at 11:48 am and will last until 1:38 pm – but ‘max view’ will occur at 12:43 pm.

Keep in mind that Alberta is not in the path of totality, so you won’t see the Moon cover the entirety of the sun, but it’ll still be pretty cool – IF you have the proper glasses!

As you’re aware, the sun is pretty bright, so it is of the utmost importance that you’re protected.

“When watching the partial phases of the solar eclipse directly with your eyes, which happens before and after totality, you must look through safe solar viewing glasses (“eclipse glasses”) or a safe handheld solar viewer at all times,” says NASA on their website.

“Eclipse glasses are NOT regular sunglasses; regular sunglasses, no matter how dark, are not safe for viewing the Sun. Safe solar viewers are thousands of times darker and ought to comply with the ISO 12312-2 international standard. NASA does not approve any particular brand of solar viewers.”

If you’ve got time for a quick project, however, you can also make an eclipse projector using a cardboard box, paper and aluminum foil.

Don’t have eclipse glasses on hand?

Here are two events in Calgary where glasses will be provided (while supplies last): 

The University of Calgary

today, April 8th, 2024 watch as the sun’s light is blocked by the moon at the U of C, where they will host a pop-up spectacular. Solar telescopes and a limited amount of eclipse glasses will be available to safely view the eclipse (one per family.)

When: Monday, April 8th, 2024
Where: University of Calgary, Green Space #7
Time: 11:30 pm – 1:30 pm
Cost: Free

TELUS Science Centre

In participation with the Royal Astronomical Society of Canada, TELUS Spark Science Centre will also be hosting a Solar Eclipse event! Interested? One pair of complimentary glasses will be given to each family and telescopes will be available throughout.

When: Monday, April 8th, 2024
Where: 220 Saint George’s Drive Northeast, Calgary
Time: 11:30 pm – 1:30 pm
Cost: $26+

But there you have it! When and where to watch the solar eclipse in Calgary

This really will be something special, and we can’t wait to see it for ourselves.

Happy viewing and be smart!