Solar eclipse 2017: Canadians take in partial eclipse across nation
Canadians across the country put on protective glasses, glanced through solar telescopes and scrutinized pinhole projectors to take in a partial solar eclipse Monday.
Time Lapse Solar Eclipse
Solar eclipse 21 8 2017
Unlike the U.S., Canada didn’t see a total solar eclipse, where the moon completely covers the sun, blacking out the sky and turning day into night momentarily. But Canadians still turned out in large numbers for a celestial show.
Victoria had the best view of the event, with 90 per cent of the sun blocked out above the British Columbia capital. The Royal Astronomical Society of Canada said Vancouver enjoyed 86 per cent coverage, Calgary 77 per cent, Toronto 70 per cent and Halifax 48 per cent.
Many who watched the eclipse expressed enthusiasm and awe at the sight of the sun slowly being partially covered by the moon.
“It’s a once in a lifetime experience,” said Sarah Tanveer, who travelled to Vancouver from Port Coquitlam, B.C., to watch the event at the H.R. MacMillan Space Centre, where a large crowd broke into a cheer when the eclipse reached its peak.
People started showing up at the centre at 6 a.m. in advance of the partial eclipse starting at 9:10 a.m., said Michael Unger, a programs co-ordinator at the center.
Anyone planning to view the total solar eclipse should get a pair of solar viewing glasses. These protective shades make it possible for observers to look directly at the sun before and after the eclipse. As for your camera, be sure to get a UV and/or solar filter for your camera!
As a reminder, be sure to shoot with a low ISO and fast shutter to ensure your photo will not be over-exposed.
