When to See the Sky Go Dark: An NYC Eclipse Guide
So, you want to witness the moon take a big ol' bite out of the sun, huh? Well, welcome to the club! But before you start planning your "I survived the eclipse" t-shirt, let's get down to brass tacks: when exactly should you be looking up?
Don't Look Directly at the Sun, Dummy!
Okay, let's get this out of the way first: DO NOT LOOK DIRECTLY AT THE SUN. Even if you think your eyesight is superpowered like Superman, trust us, it's not. You'll fry your retinas faster than a hot dog at a 4th of July barbecue. So, get your eclipse glasses ready, or find a pinhole projector. We'll explain more about those later.
What Time is the Eclipse in NYC?
For our New York City dwellers, the partial eclipse will start around 2:10 PM EDT on April 8, 2024. But the main event, when the moon covers about 90% of the sun, happens at around 3:25 PM EDT. The whole shebang will wrap up by 4:36 PM.
Pro tip: Don't be late! This isn't a Broadway show where you can casually stroll in 15 minutes after it starts. You wanna catch the peak action.
Where to Watch the Eclipse in NYC
While NYC won't experience total darkness like some lucky folks upstate, it's still a pretty cool sight to see. Some popular spots for eclipse viewing include:
- Rooftops: Get a bird's eye view of the celestial show. Just make sure you have a clear line of sight to the sun.
- Parks: Pack a picnic blanket, some snacks, and your eclipse glasses. Enjoy the show with fellow sky-gazers.
- Planetariums and Science Centers: These places usually have special events and expert commentary. Plus, you can learn some cool stuff about eclipses.
How to Prepare for the Eclipse
- Get Your Eclipse Glasses: These are essential for safe viewing. Make sure they are certified ISO 12312-2.
- Check the Weather: Fingers crossed for clear skies! You don't want all your planning to go to waste because of clouds.
- Set a Reminder: You don't want to miss this! Set an alarm on your phone or ask your smart speaker to remind you.
How To... Eclipse Edition
- How to make a pinhole projector: Take a piece of cardboard and poke a small hole in it. Hold it up to the sun and project the image onto another piece of paper. Voila! You've got a DIY eclipse viewer.
- How to find a good viewing spot: Look for a location with a clear view of the sky and minimal obstructions.
- How to take eclipse photos: Use a solar filter on your camera or smartphone to protect your device and capture the amazing moment.
- How to stay safe during the eclipse: Wear your eclipse glasses at all times, except when looking away from the sun. Avoid looking at the sun through a camera, telescope, or binoculars without a solar filter.
- How to enjoy the eclipse: Relax, take it all in, and appreciate the wonder of the universe.