Published October 12, 2023 at 10:44 am.
The show will be rare and spectacular. But we have to take our precautions. Here’s how to watch Saturday’s partial solar eclipse.
Annular solar eclipse
On Saturday, October 14, at approximately 1:15 p.m., part of the Sun will be obscured by the Moon over Quebec. This solar eclipse will be annular in parts of North America. This happens when the moon is far from Earth. The sun will therefore not be completely obscured and we will be able to see a ring of light around the moon. A total solar eclipse can occur when the moon is at its closest point to Earth. Then it can completely block the sun for a few minutes. It is a spectacular event when it is almost dark for a few moments in the middle of the day.
The less spoiled one
In Quebec, Témiscamingue will be the most spoiled sector, while at 2:18 p.m. more than 22% of the sun will be covered by the moon. In the east, the solar eclipse will be barely noticeable. In Gaspé, for example, just over 6% of the sun will be covered by the moon.
Never look at the sun
Whether total or partial, a solar eclipse should be observed with caution. Although nearly 20% of the sun’s surface is obscured by the moon, UV and infrared rays are present and can damage your eyes. You should never look directly at the sun without protection. Even tinted lenses do not offer sufficient protection. The old negative film trick doesn’t work.
Specific glasses
Spotting scopes are available at astronomy stores for less than five dollars. Safety glasses must comply with ISO 12312-2:2015. You can also use a class 14 welding mask. You can also observe the phenomenon indirectly using a shoebox. Whatever instrument you use, save it for the next astronomical event: a very rare total solar eclipse will be visible in Quebec on April 8, 2024.