Solar Eclipse 2024
Are you excited about the total solar eclipse passing across northern and western Maine on April 8th? Here is some information that will help answer your eclipse-related questions and help you have a safe and enjoyable viewing experience.
THE LIBRARY HAS RUN OUT OF FREE, ISO CERTIFIED ECLIPSE GLASSES
WHAT DO I DO IF THE LIBRARY IS OUT OF FREE ECLIPSE GLASSES?
If you were not able to get free eclipse glasses before supplies ran out, don’t panic! Here is a list of alternatives to safely viewing the eclipse:
Purchase ISO Certified Eclipse Glasses
You might still be able to find glasses available for purchase. Check this listing of reputable vendors compiled by the American Astronomical Society.
Make a Simple Pinhole Projector
You can make your own pinhole projector to indirectly view a projection of the eclipse – just like you did in 3rd grade! This video from NASA offers simple how-to instructions using a cereal box.
Make an Elaborate Pinhole Projector
NPR created this how-to video that features a variety of DIY pinhole projectors. You could make a different one for each member of your family.
3D Print a Pinhole Projector
Did you know that the library has a 3D printer that you can use? You can download this 3D pinhole projector design from NASA.
Watch a Live-Video Stream
Experience the eclipse virtually by watching one of the livestream webcasts from Space.com’s curated list.
WHAT IS A SOLAR ECLIPSE?
A solar eclipse is a periodic astronomical event caused when the moon passes between the sun and Earth. The moon temporarily blocks the sun from view either partially or totally, depending on where in the world it is observed. Here in Portland, we will be able to see approximately a 96% eclipse at the maximum magnitude, around 3:30pm.
Learn more at Solar Eclipse: When the Sun Throws Shade in Style on Wednesday, April 3rd at 5:30. Dr. Fe McBride (Bowdoin College) will speak on the coming total solar eclipse, exploring profound impact of eclipses on culture and science alike, and how eclipses help scientists learn about our planet, our solar system, and the universe.
WHEN WILL IT HAPPEN?
The 2024 eclipse will take place on Monday, April 8. It is estimated to begin in Portland at 2:18pm and last until 4:39pm. The maximum eclipse in Portland will occur at approximately 3:30pm. Portland is not in the “path of totality,” where the sun will be entirely obscured for a short time. That means that if you are observing the eclipse in the Portland area, there is NO time when it will be safe to remove your eclipse glasses while viewing the sun.
Check out these interactive maps from NASA and TimeAndDate to see the timing and extent of the eclipse in other locations.
WHERE WILL IT HAPPEN?
A partial eclipse will be visible in some form throughout the continental United States and much of Central America. The total eclipse will follow a narrow path from Northern Mexico into Texas, across several midwestern and eastern US states, and through Quebec and Maine into New Brunswick, Canada.
Check NASA’s or TimeAndDate’s map to see the timing and extent of the eclipse in other locations.
HOW DO I WATCH IT?
It is never safe to look directly at the sun, even when it is partially eclipsed by the moon. The only safe way to look directly at the sun is through special-purpose solar filters, such as “eclipse glasses.” Ordinary sunglasses, even very dark ones, are not safe for looking at the sun. You must be sure you are looking through authorized eclipse glasses that have been verified to be compliant with the ISO 12312-2 international safety standard. Look for glasses identified as ISO 12312-2 compliant and look for the ISO logo:
Only if you are in the path of totality, it may be safe to remove your eye protection and look at the sun’s corona as viewable around the shadow of the moon. However, totality only occurs briefly, and if you are not absolutely certain of the timing and completeness of totality, or under the direction of a qualified astronomer, it is best to continue to use your eye protection or your pinhole viewer or other viewing device.
CAN I USE A WELDING MASK TO WATCH THE ECLIPSE?
Using a welding mask or welding glasses to view the eclipse is only safe if they darken at shade #13 or above. Auto-darkening masks are not recommended as some older models may not darken as quickly as you need them to. Most welding lenses (masks, helmets, and goggles) start at a shade rating of #8 and can go up to #13 or above. To ensure complete safety, use lenses with a rating of #13 or above, which have been certified by the American National Standards Institute.
SOLAR ECLIPSE TERMS
Total Eclipse & Partial Eclipse
Depending on where you are when an eclipse happens, the moon might block out the entire sun or just part of it.
Corona
This is the thin ring of sunlight that remains visible around the moon during a total eclipse.
Umbra & Penumbra
The umbra is the darkest, fullest part of the moon’s shadow, as would be seen during a total eclipse. The penumbra is a partial shadow, as we will see during this year’s solar eclipse in Maine.
THE ECLIPSE IN MYTHOLOGY
Indigenous North American Mythology
There are many Indigenous beliefs about eclipses. Explore some of them with this article from Smithsonian Magazine.
Norse Mythology
Hati the moon devourer and Skoll the sun devourer are the sons of Fenrir and Gulveig-Hoder. These two sons are actually giant wolves who guard the forest where the sun and moon sleep. Skoll chases the sun across the sky and into the sacred forest. Sometimes he catches it and devours it – temporarily.
Hindu Mythology
Svarbhanu is a demon who hides the sun. His downfall is caused by Indra, the king of heaven, who manages to replace the sun in the sky.
Other Customs
The ancient Chinese banged pots and drums to try and scare away the dragon who was devouring the sun. The ancient Peruvians shot arrows into the sky to fend off the beast which was attacking the sun.
MORE INFORMATION
Here are some websites that offer a wealth of reliable, reputable, trustworthy information about the 2024 Solar Eclipse: