Total Solar Eclipse 2024

Distribution of Solar Eclipse glasses

Attention Grimsby Residents!

Town Staff will be distributing complimentary Solar Eclipse glasses to residents on a first come, first serve basis, while supplies last.

Join us on Tuesday, March 19 from 6 – 8 p.m. at the Peach King Centre.

Please note there is a limit of 2 pairs of glasses per household and proof of Grimsby residency required. A donation toward GBF is welcomed and encouraged.

We want to thank Dr. Peaker Eyewear for the generous contribution to help purchase the glasses!

We look forward to seeing you there.

Mark the Date!

On Monday, April 8, a total solar eclipse will take place over southern Ontario, with the moon passing between the Earth and the sun, blocking the sun completely and turning the sky dark enough to see the stars.

This rare astronomical event will be a once-in-a-lifetime experience for many. The last time a total solar eclipse occurred over Ontario was in 1979, and the next one won’t happen again over the province until 2099.

Niagara will be one of the best places in Canada to view the eclipse and thousands of visitors are expected to be here to share it with us.

The total Solar Eclipse will be visible in North America, passing over Mexico, the United States, and Canada. The moon is expected to completely cover the sun in the direct path of totality, making this a rare opportunity to observe this phenomenon.

During a total Solar Eclipse, the path of totality is a narrow corridor approximately 100 to 115 km wide where the sun appears to be completely covered by the moon for a short period of time (between 2 and 3 minutes). This is the most spectacular part of the eclipse, as those who are lucky enough to be in this corridor are able to see the sun's corona, the chromosphere, prominences and streamers.

In Grimsby, the partial eclipse will begin at approximately 2:04 p.m., with the start time of totality at 3:18 p.m. The total duration of the totality will be 2 mins 47 secs.

The eclipse must be viewed through eclipse glasses or a handheld solar viewer to avoid damaging your eyes.

Protect your peepers!

WARNING: Looking directly at the uncovered Sun without protection can cause retinal burns, sight loss or blurred vision. There are no pain sensors in your retinas to tell you that your eyes are being damaged. Once symptoms begin, the damage is usually too late to reverse.

How to safely watch a Solar Eclipse:

Here are some tips to prepare for the Solar Eclipse in Grimsby 

• Expect crowds, lines, and traffic. Have snacks, water, entertainment, and first-aid supplies on hand.

• Fill up your gas tank, get groceries and run errands before the eclipse.

• Buy eclipse glasses in advance.

• Check travel conditions and road closures on Ontario 511.

• Plan for childcare on April 8 as most schools in Grimsby will be closed.

• Make sure children know how to view the eclipse safely.

• Have an emergency kit and preparedness plan for potential disruptions.

• Call 211 or check your local municipality’s website for service changes, closures and more.

IMPORTANT LINKS:

Niagara Region: Solar Eclipse Safety

https://www.niagararegion.ca/solar-eclipse/safety.aspx

Reputable and Safe Suppliers of Solar Eclipse Glasses

https://eclipse.aas.org/eye-safety/viewers-filters

Government of Canada: Your guide to Solar Eclipses

https://www.asc-csa.gc.ca/eng/astronomy/eclipses/solar-eclipses.asp

Royal Astronomical Society of Canada

https://rasc.ca/eclipse2024

The National Aeronautics and Space Administration (NASA)

https://science.nasa.gov/eclipses/future-eclipses/eclipse-2024/where-when/

Eclipse2024.org

https://eclipse2024.org/