What is it?
A solar eclipse is a rare natural event caused when the moon
passes between the sun and Earth. The moon temporarily blocks the
sun from view either partially or totally, depending on where in
the world it is observed. A total solar eclipse has not been
seen in Maine since 1963 and will not be seen again until
2079.
Where will it happen?
On Monday, April 8, 2024 a total eclipse of the sun will occur in
the Northern Hemisphere and Northern Maine is on the “path of
totality” when the moon completely blocks the sun and we
experience a brief moment of darkness on earth. Isle au Haut is
not on the path of totality, but will experience a 97% eclipse.
The maximum totality in Isle au Haut will be at 3:31 pm and last about 3 minute and 26 seconds. It will be a very deep partial eclipse, with some amount of sky darkening. But there will be no corona, no totality, and no dramatic moments on eclipse day. To see a complete eclipse, you will need to travel to the centerline. Through Maine, the speed of the Moon’s shadow will accelerate from about 2690 miles per hour to about 3,175 miles per hour.
How do I watch it?
It is NEVER safe to look directly at the sun, even when it’s
partially eclipsed by the moon. The eclipse glasses are certified
to protect your eyes so you can safely experience the amazing
event!
Solar eclipse terms
total eclipse & partial eclipse
Depending on
where you are when an eclipse happens, the moon might block out
the entire sun or just part of it.
corona
This is the thin ring of sunlight that remains visible around the
moon during a total eclipse.
umbra & penumbra The
umbra is the darkest, fullest part of the moon’s shadow, as would
be seen during a total eclipse. The penumbra is a partial shadow,
as we will see during this year’s solar eclipse in Bangor.
More Information
The library
has an informative bulletin board in the foyer at Revere
Memorial Hall.
The March 28,
204 edition of the Island Ad-Vantages has two pages of
interesting facts about the eclipse.
www.greatamericaneclipse.com/maine-2024-eclipse
Depending on where you are when an eclipse happens, the moon
might block out the entire sun or just part of it.
corona
This is the thin ring of sunlight that remains visible around the
moon during a total eclipse.
umbra & penumbra The umbra is the darkest, fullest part of the moon’s shadow, as would be seen during a total eclipse. The penumbra is a partial shadow, as we will see during this year’s solar eclipse in Bangor.