On April 8th of this year, we will be experiencing a total solar eclipse, the first one to pass the US since 2017. A solar eclipse happens when the Moon passes between the Sun and the Earth, and when a total solar eclipse happens the Moon covers the entire Sun. The areas where the Moon’s shadow will cover the Earth completely are known as the Moons path of totality. These are the areas that experience the total solar eclipse. In Massachusetts we will experience around 85% totality, so not completely covered, but still a lot. Some of the areas with higher coverage will experience 95% totality, depending on the weather. Solar eclipses are something very special and exciting to see, and according to NASA, the next one that we see in the U.S won’t be until 2044.

I spoke to Winthrops own Mr. Palen about his plans for the solar eclipse, and got to see what some members of our community are doing. In 2017 Mr. Palen missed the solar eclipse, and didn’t get the full eclipse experience. He decided that he would not miss the next eclipse, and made note on his calendar to go see the next solar eclipse. 7 years later, the time has finally come. He and his wife plan to go to New Hampshire, an area that will be in the path of totality. The town they will be in is also celebrating the eclipse, having festivals and special items related to the eclipse. It should be very exciting, and Mr. Palen will finally get to see an eclipse!

The solar eclipse is expected to be between 2 and 4:30 PM, which is close to school hours making, it difficult to find a good place to watch it for anyone who is planning on going to an area with higher coverage. However, we will be having pretty high coverage right here in Winthrop. In Winthrop we are expected to have 92% obscurity, according to a solar eclipse map created by Xavier M. Jubier. The time to be alert is around 3:30, because that is when the Sun is expected to be at maximum coverage.

I want to mention how important it is to wear some form of eye protection if you are planning on watching the eclipse. The Sun is very bright, and since Massachusetts will not be getting full coverage, it is very important to make sure you are being safe. Overall, this is a really exciting event that I think everyone should pay attention to. Something like this won’t happen again for a very long time, so it would be nice for us all to do something to commemorate the day. Just make sure to have fun and stay safe!