Solar Eclipse - Basic Information Everyone Should Know
In case you haven't heard, there is going to be a solar eclipse on August 21, 2017. Solar eclipses occur anywhere from 2 to 5 times a year, so why is this one so special? Because it's a total solar eclipse, meaning that the moon's orbit has put it close enough to the Earth to completely cover the sun. While solar eclipses are not rare, experiencing a total solar eclipse is something that only happens over any given location once in about 375 years. So, this one is kind of a big deal!
While the total phase of the solar eclipse will not be visible in Huntsville, we are going to be able to see a partial eclipse that will cover a large portion of the sun. While watching this spectacular sight is exciting, it can also be dangerous. Looking directly at the sun without eye protection can cause severe eye damage or even blindness. There are ways to safely observe the sun. Eclipse glasses will be available at several events in the Huntsville area.
The partial eclipse will begin around 12:00 noon in Huntsville, while the maximum coverage of the sun will be visible around 1:30 PM. If you plan to hold an eclipse viewing party, here are some fun facts you can share:
- The total solar eclipse, when the Moon completely obscures the Sun and leaves only the faint solar corona, is known as a "Totality".
- During a solar eclipse the Moon moves across the Sun at a speed of approximately 1,398 miles per hour.
- This is the first time in 38 years that a Totality will be visible in the contiguous United States and it will be 7 years until the next one will be visible from a location in the contiguous United States.
- The last time a Totality was visible from coast to coast in the contiguous United States was 100 years ago!
- The word "eclipse" comes from the Greek word for downfall or abandonment.
- The ancient Greeks thought that a solar eclipse was a sign of angry gods and that it was the beginning of disasters and destruction.
You can find more information about the August 21, 2017 solar eclipse here.
Courtesy Huntsville AL Real Estate Broker Mike Manosky.