Total solar eclipse on April 8, 2024

Witness a phenomenal astronomical event on Monday, April 8: a total solar eclipse!

What is a total solar eclipse?
A solar eclipse happens when the moon aligns between the Earth and the Sun, and partially or entirely blocks its light. When the stars align perfectly, as will be the case on April 8, the shadow cast by the moon can plunge certain regions into darkness, even in the middle of the day. This is a total solar eclipse. The last time such an event was visible from Quebec dates back to 1972, and the next one will not take place before 2106!

How to observe the solar eclipse?
It is important to protect your eyes when observing an eclipse. You should never look directly at the Sun without proper protection, at the risk of severe vision problems or even blindness. Also, ordinary sunglasses do not provide proper eye protection for observing an eclipse. REGRETTABLY, WE DO NOT HAVE ANYMORE GLASSES.

Glasses that are specially designed for observing eclipses are certified ISO 12312-2 and block more than 99.9% of the sun’s rays. These can be worn to observe all stages of an eclipse. When the sun is completely hidden by the moon, a moment which only lasts between 1 and 3 minutes depending on where you are in relation to the eclipse, it is safe to observe the phenomenon unfiltered, with a naked eye. The American Astronomical Society offers more detail on how to view an eclipse safely.

Where and when to observe the solar eclipse?
The eclipse will be visible across the entire island of Montreal. It will begin around 2:14 p.m., will be in its totality between 3:26 p.m. and 3:28 p.m., and will end around 4:36 p.m. Join us on the lawn of the Library, at 4574 Sherbrooke Street West, from 2 p.m. on Monday, April 8, to experience this spectacular phenomenon together!