Check out some common safety tips and the best times to view in Ontario

It’s solar eclipse day in our part of the world and people everywhere are getting excited!

The rare celestial event of being able to witness a total solar eclipse (or most of it anyway) can be a once-in-a-lifetime event for many, making it a must-see when it does happen.

Schools have been cancelled locally as the main event will be taking place right at the end of the day – and we all know how curious kids can be – and many have taken the day or at least half the day off work.

However, it should be noted that solar eclipses are a common event and happen annually worldwide: what differs is which countries (and even locations within those countries) can see the event.

The next time places in Ontario will be able to see the full solar eclipse will be in about 20 years – though in 2033 many parts of Canada will be able to see various percentages of that year’s total eclipse.

Those in Muskoka, and central Ontario as a whole, won’t see the sun completely blocked out – only places like Hamilton and Niagara, which are in the direct path, will get that privilege. However, the sky will darken as our area will see a 90 percent block out.

The best viewing times in most of Ontario will see it begin shortly after 2 p.m. today. The full eclipse will be visible between 3:18 p.m. and 3:25 p.m. (depending on where you are). The event will end around 4:30 p.m.

SAFETY FIRST

If you are planning on having a peek, make sure to be safe. Even when the sun is more than 90 percent obscured, the solar rays that get through are more than enough to damage human eyes.

If you’re using solar glasses, make sure they came from a reputable retailer. Sunglasses are not an acceptable substitute.

Our family read many articles from quality sources on the subject including Popular Mechanics, New York Magazine, CNN and the National Post, before choosing to go with the Soluna Solar Eclipse that are CE and ISO Certified Safe Shades for direct sun viewing.

Other options include watching online or on TV,  or setting up a pinhole projecter. This will let you see the shadow of the sun being covered by the moon. Directions are here. Looking at the sun through the mirror is not safe – it’s just as dangerous as looking directly at the sun.

https://www.asc-csa.gc.ca/eng/youth-educators/activities/fun-experiments/eclipse-projector.asp

However you are planning to enjoy the eclipse, please make sure to do it safely!