What You Need To Know
- Don’t look at the eclipse without special protective eyewear
- New York City will experience a partial solar eclipse
- The eclipse will first be visible for New York City, with eclipse glasses, at 2:20 p.m.
- The eclipse for New York City will peak at 3:20 p.m.
For New York City, 90% of the sun will be blocked by the moon’s shadow at the maximum of the eclipse. This sounds like a lot, but actually, only a subtle dimming of the sun is expected in our city. Let’s talk about what will happen and when.
New York City’s Solar Show
Here’s a timeline of what happens and when. The first time the eclipse will be visible for New York City is at 2:20 p.m. A small “bite” out of the sun will be visible, but only to those with special protective eye wear. These eclipse glasses can be purchased. Also, many New York City libraries are giving them away for free, while supplies last. For those without glasses, you won’t notice any significant change in daylight during the entire event.
The peak of the eclipse will be at 3:20 p.m. for New York City. Eighty-nine percent of the sun will be covered. Those with their eclipse glasses will be able to see this special sight, while everyone else won’t really notice any change in the brightness of the sky. At its peak, the sun will look like an orange crescent moon.
In addition to wearing eclipse glasses, remember to not use binoculars or telescopes to view the sun. Fast and permanent eye damage is possible. To get a photo of the eclipse, you put your eclipse glasses over the lens of your camera/phone.
Outside of New York City
Outside of New York City, the eclipse will be total instead of partial. This rare occurrence will happen in Dallas, Cleveland, Buffalo, and Rochester. Tens of thousands of people are expected to travel to these areas. For these areas, daytime will turn to nighttime and then back to daytime during the eclipse. Note that your pets do not need eclipse glasses as they will not be staring at the sun.
The darkness will only last a few minutes, but temperatures will fall, street lights will come on, and nighttime insects are expected to chirp. Like in our area, everyone is encouraged to wear special eclipse glasses to prevent permanent eye damage. The next total eclipse in our area will be in 2079.
Conclusion
A solar eclipse is a rare and unique event, and we are fortunate to have the opportunity to experience it. Whether you are in New York City or traveling to one of the affected areas, make sure to take the necessary precautions to protect your eyes and enjoy the experience. Remember, don’t look at the eclipse without special protective eyewear, and don’t use binoculars or telescopes to view the sun. With proper precautions, you can enjoy this rare and spectacular event.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: What time does the eclipse start in New York City?
A: The eclipse will first be visible for New York City at 2:20 p.m.
Q: How long will the eclipse last in New York City?
A: The eclipse will last for about an hour, with the peak being at 3:20 p.m.
Q: Can I view the eclipse with binoculars or telescopes?
A: No, it is not recommended to use binoculars or telescopes to view the eclipse. Fast and permanent eye damage is possible. Instead, wear special eclipse glasses to protect your eyes.
Q: Do I need eclipse glasses?
A: Yes, it is highly recommended to wear special eclipse glasses to prevent permanent eye damage. You can purchase them or pick one up for free from a New York City library while supplies last.
Q: Will my pet need eclipse glasses?
A: No, your pet does not need eclipse glasses. They will not be staring at the sun during the eclipse.
