Philadelphia is on the brink of a celestial phenomenon! Monday, April 8, 20234 a total solar eclipse will travel across North America passing Mexico, United States, and Canada. For our region, we can expect a partial solar eclipse. Specifically, Monday’s solar eclipse will reach 90% totality in Philadelphia. Indeed, an eclipse of this magnitude hasn’t been seen in the city since 1984. For some of us, this is a once in a lifetime occurrence. A similar eclipse won’t be seen again until 2078!
What Is A Total Solar Eclipse?
According to Nasa, a total solar eclipse happens when the Moon passes between the Sun and Earth, completely blocking the face of the Sun. The sky will darken as if it were dawn or dusk.
In Philadelphia however, we can expect 90% totality resulting in a “deep partial” solar eclipse. Depending upon the weather and cloud cover, the sky will become noticeably darker and brighter stars will shine. Lastly, the sun will appear as a crescent.
When Will It Pass Over Philly?
In Philadelphia, the partial solar eclipse will begin Monday, April 8, 2024 at 2:08 p.m. as the moon makes its 2 1/2 hour path across the sun moving south to west.
The mid-eclipse time and highest coverage will occur at 3:23:42 p.m.
How Can I Safely View It?
The eclipse will be viewable from any open space facing southwest away from tree cover across the city and surrounding regions.
However, safety is paramount when viewing a solar eclipse. NASA has shared several safety facts including:
- Except during the brief total phase of a total solar eclipse, when the Moon completely blocks the Sun’s bright face, it is not safe to look directly at the Sun without specialized eye protection for solar viewing.
- Viewing any part of the bright Sun through a camera lens, binoculars, or a telescope without a special-purpose solar filter secured over the front of the optics will instantly cause severe eye injury.
- Eclipse glasses are NOT regular sunglasses; regular sunglasses, no matter how dark, are not safe for viewing the Sun
You can read more on safety here.
Where To Watch The Solar Eclipse In Philly?
In truly Philly spirit, such a phenomenon deserves a party. Many businesses will be hosting viewing parties with access to protective eclipse glasses. These businesses include:
- The Franklin Institute– From 1:30 p.m. to 5:00 p.m., the Franklin Institute and Federal Donuts is hosting a family-friendly viewing party. Enjoy live entertainment, a beer garden, solar viewing stations, and more. Eclipse glasses will be available for purchase. For more information, visit here.
- Morris Arboretum & Gardens in Chestnut Hill– Beginning at 2:30 p.m., this family-friendly watch party is free to attend with general admission to Morris Arboretum. Children can make their own cereal box viewer while adults can receive a free pair of eclipse glasses while supplies last. Visit here for more information.
- Kimpton Palomar Philadelphia– this swanky Philadelphia hotel is offering a one-day-only package with a 1:00 pm check-in, approved viewing glasses, and a smartphone filter for cell phones to capture this monumental event. For more information, visit here.
Interested in making your own eclipse cereal box viewer? Visit here.
Where To Buy Eclipse Glasses?
According to the American Astronomical Society, you can buy ISO-compliant safe eclipse glasses at the following retailers:
- Staples
- Lowe’s
- Wegmans
- Cracker Barrel
- Walmart
- 7-Eleven
Also, Warby Parker will be giving out free eclipse glasses at all locations while supplies. Families are allowed up to two pairs. Next, check with your local library branch. Many will have free eclipse glasses while supplies last.
Don’t Miss This Exciting Event
You don’t want to miss this exciting celestial event! The last solar eclipse of this magnitude occurred Memorial Day weekend in 1984. And while Philadelphia did experience a partial eclipse August 17, 2021, totality was only 80%.
Monday April 8th, 2024 totally will reach 90% in Philadelphia.
We won’t see another eclipse of that magnitude until another half-century, on May 11, 2078.