Hundreds of Montrealers will gather in Jean-Drapeau Park on April 8 to witness the total solar eclipse that will take place that day. This is a rare – very rare – opportunity to witness a total solar eclipse. The next one to hit the metropolis is expected in the year 2205 and the last one dates back to February 26, 1979.
The total solar eclipse on April 8 could last from just over 2 minutes to more than 4 minutes, according to scientists' calculations. It is imperative to protect your eyes during the phenomenon.
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Only filters for binoculars and telescopes that are specifically developed and approved for safe observation of the sun are suitable as protective filters. These are available at astronomy stores. You can also rely on special glasses designed for observing solar eclipses that comply with the ISO 12312-2:2015 standard, as well as welding glasses No. 14 (non-clear), available at your local hardware store. Closer to you.
Once they exit the Jean-Drapeau subway station, curious visitors will receive a pair of solar eclipse goggles, offered free by the Trottier Family Foundation.
A vast corridor of darkness
The moon's shadow will cause a corridor of darkness approximately 200 kilometers wide that will affect the island of Montreal. This 14,700 km long strip will stretch from the Pacific to the Atlantic. According to experts, 45% of residents in the Montreal metropolitan area could witness this total solar eclipse. Parts of Montérégie, Estrie, Centre-du-Québec and Beauce are also expected to be affected by this phenomenon.
According to the Space for Life Planetarium, which organizes this event with the support of the Société du parc Jean-Drapeau, there will only be 68 total solar eclipses in the 21st century. It is said that this green space, which celebrates its 150th anniversary this year, is ideal for observing the phenomenon due to its open views.
To mark this unique event, the two partners have put together an educational and festive program that will take place from 11 a.m. whatever the weather. All details will be announced shortly.
People are directed to the Espace 67 amphitheater. A central stage welcomes guests and artists.
In addition to the planetarium, Space for Life, Canada's largest natural science complex, includes the Biodôme, the Biosphere, the Insectarium and the Botanical Garden.