If you are interested in receiving news about local planned activities and events from the Hamilton RASC related to the Total Solar Eclipse, please join this mailing list (your information will not be sold or shared).
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65 days to the Solar Eclipse
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On April 8, 2024, Hamilton, Ontario and areas to the east will be within the boundaries of a total solar eclipse! The Hamilton Centre of the RASC will be holding a public event on the day of the eclipse. Be sure to follow this page for Hamilton eclipse updates on our planned activities!
What is a Solar Eclipse?
When was the last Solar Eclipse in Hamilton?
Where will this Solar Eclipse be Visible?
Where do I have to be in Hamilton?
Are you hosting or participating in any activities I can join?
Solar Eclipse Tips
Do you have Solar Glasses for sale?
I am a Teacher/Educator – what resources are available?
Other useful links
What is a Solar Eclipse?
Solar eclipses occur when the moon passes directly between the Sun and the Earth, and the Moon’s shadow. Depending on your location and the distance of the moon, you can see a partial, annular or total eclipse!
When was the last Solar Eclipse in Hamilton?
The last total solar eclipse in Hamilton was on January 24, 1925, and it lasted approximately 1 minute and 45 seconds.
The last eclipse visible in Hamilton was a partial eclipse was on August 21, 2017, when approximately 70% of the Sun was covered.
The next partial eclipse in Hamilton will be on October 14, 2023, where approximately 28% of the Sun will be covered.
The next total solar eclipse in Hamilton won’t be until October 26, 2144, so don’t miss this one!
Where will this Solar Eclipse be Visible?
The solar eclipse will stretch from Mazatlan, Mexico, through major population centers such as Dallas, Indianapolis, Cleveland, Buffalo and Montreal. Cities like Toronto are outside the path of totality and will experience a partial eclipse. If you are in Ontario but outside of the Hamilton/Niagara area, then you will see a partial eclipse. This interactive map allows you to explore where the eclipse will be visible.
Where do I have to be in Hamilton?
In the Hamilton area, the total solar eclipse will last anywhere from a few seconds to over 3 minutes, depending on where you are located. The map below will show you how much time you can expect to see totality (weather permitting).
Are you hosting or participating in any activities I can join?
Yes! We are hosting our event at CF Lime Ridge, in the southwest corner of their parking lot. We ask that you register so we have accurate numbers of people attending.
Solar Eclipse Tips
Remember, it is NOT safe to look at the Sun without proper eye protection. You can view the eclipse directly without proper eye protection only when the Moon completely obscures the Sun’s bright face – during the brief and spectacular period known as totality. (You’ll know it’s safe when you can no longer see any part of the Sun through eclipse glasses or a solar viewer.)
If you are outside the path of totality (even by just a little bit), it is NOT safe to view the Sun without protection. While the sky may dim a little outside the path of totality, there will still be plenty of daylight. This is why you want to be in the path of totality – there is nothing like it!
If you are interested in receiving news about local planned activities and events from the Hamilton RASC related to the Total Solar Eclipse, please join this mailing list (your information will not be sold or shared).
Do you have Solar Glasses available for sale?
We’ve been getting questions about solar glasses for the upcoming eclipse on April 8, 2024.
We’ve ordered a large quantity of the 3D paper glass style with high quality solar film in them. They’re made by a company called Rainbow Optics. On the reverse, are instructions for safe usage.
Please reach out to our Outreach Director Victor Abraham to order the quantity you wish. They’re $3 each.
If you’re looking to support a good cause and get solar glasses at the same time check out: https://www.monarchbutterflyeclipse.com/
We will also be announcing the events planned for solar eclipse viewing so stay tuned…
I am a Teacher/Educator – what resources are available?
If you’re a Canadian teacher or educator and you’re looking for resources to help you teach astronomy and science then check out the Discover the Universe webpage. You’ll find free online workshops and webinars, as well as downloadable educational resources. You can also catch them in person at various workshops and conferences. Sign up for their newsletter to receive updates on all upcoming events. You can even order free solar glasses for your classroom while quantities last.
