The solar eclipse is coming up soon, and will be darkening the sky on April 8. So, what do you need to know about this exciting phenomenon, and how will it impact visiting HCA? Learn more here!
When is the eclipse?
The eclipse will take place on Monday, April 8. The entire event from start to finish will be from about 2 PM to 4:30 PM, and Hamilton will experience about 90 seconds of full solar coverage starting at approximately 3:18 PM.
Where is the eclipse?
The eclipse will be visible in parts of Canada, United States and Mexico. Hamilton is lucky in that it will experience full solar coverage. Depending on where you are in the City will determine the duration of the eclipse.
Protect yourself
Looking at the eclipse can cause temporary and permanent damage to your eyes. In order to view the eclipse safely, you will need special glasses. Regular sunglasses will not protect your eyes during an eclipse. All eye protection used to view the solar eclipse must meet the ISO 12312-2:2015. Children should be supervised during the eclipse.
Where can I get eclipse glasses in Hamilton?
The City of Hamilton has eclipse glasses available at public libraries, recreation centres, civic museums and Tourism Hamilton while supplies last. Be cautious of counterfeit eclipse glasses when purchasing from retailers, as they’ve been know to be distributed during previous eclipse events.
Where can I view the eclipse?
Good news, you just have to head outside and look up! You do not need to travel anywhere special to view the eclipse. In fact, it’s best to not travel on this day as the Hamilton and Niagara Regions are expecting a significant influx of people to the area to view the eclipse. Although the eclipse is passing through North America, all areas will not experience full coverage or even the eclipse as all. Toronto for example will not have full coverage and neither will Kitchener, among other places.
Are HCA conservation areas open? Do I have to preregister?
All of your favorite HCA conservation areas will remain open for regular entry operations on Monday, April 8 and pre-registration is not required. Conservation area grounds, trails, and washroom services may not be fully available due to early spring like conditions. HCA anticipates visitation levels could become busy during this event, and advise viewing comfortably from your home if possible.
Confederation Beach Park is a designated viewing place for the City of Hamilton.
Additional Information
For more information about the solar eclipse in Hamilton, visit the City of Hamilton website.
To view HCA’s poster on the eclipse, click here.
The next full solar eclipse won’t be visible from Hamilton until 2144 – that’s 120 years away! Happy viewing!
