Eclipse Alert from The Backyard Astronomer

In the early morning hours of May 26, the Full Flower Moon will pass into the earth’s shadow. North America is poised to see some portion of the eclipse except for the Maritimes where the moon will have set before the eclipse even begins. Lunar eclipses are very safe to observe and photograph. Atlantic Time Not visible Eastern Time The partial umbral eclipse begins at 5:44 a.m. Moon already below the horizon for most locations. Central Time The partial umbral eclipse begins at 4:44 a.m. Totality – moon sets before totality begins. Mountain Time The partial umbral eclipse begins at 3:44 a.m. Totality occurs at moonset Pacific Time The partial umbral eclipse begins at 2:44 a.m. Totality begins at 4:11 a.m. Mid eclipse at 4:18 a.m. Totality ends at 4:25 a.m. Moon sets before partial eclipse end. Two weeks after the lunar eclipse there will be a spectacular sunrise partial solar eclipse observed primarily from the upper eastern part of the continent. This is where precautions must be taken to prevent eye injury or even blindness. If the morning is clear for those with solar filters will see the eclipse through distant trees and buildings which will make for a fantastic photo op. NEVER LOOK AT THE SUN WITHOUT A PROPER FILTER. Sunglasses are not designed to look directly at the sun. A few safe ways to observe this event is using a piece of #14 welder’s glass (only number 14). Contact online reputable telescope dealers to purchase eclipse glasses. When using a telescope remember to place the filter in front of the telescope which will reduce the damaging light by more than 99%. Another safe way is to project the sun’s light image through a spaghetti strainer about one foot away from the side of a building or sheet of paper and safely look at the small “happy faces”. Anything with a small hole, even a Ritz Cracker. https://www.timeanddate.com/eclipse/map/2021-june-10 I am always available for an interview. Clear skies, Gary Boyle The Backyard Astronomer 613-851-6566 Known as “The Backyard Astronomer”, Gary Boyle is an astronomy educator, guest speaker and monthly columnist for the Royal Astronomical Society of Canada. He has been interviewed on more than 50 Canadian radio stations as well as television across Canada and the US. In recognition of his public outreach in astronomy, the International Astronomical Union has honoured him with the naming of Asteroid (22406) Garyboyle. Follow him on Twitter: @astroeducator or his website: www.wondersofastronomy.com