Apocalypse Wow: Total Eclipse

• Neighborhoods and News
• August 18, 2017

In just three days, the first total eclipse since 1979 will occur. The eclipse will reach complete totality across 12 states in the U.S. from Oregon to South Carolina. While California may not be on the list for complete totality, San Diego will be able to see almost 60% of the sun covered which is still a big deal. You don’t realize the magnificence of a solar eclipse until a chunk of the sun is missing.

If you’re not entirely sure what this solar eclipse is you’ve been hearing about, it’s pretty rare how often it happens in the world because of the placement of the Earth versus the sun and moon. During the eclipse, the moon passes over the sun and covers it, which causes momentary darkness and a slight drop in temperature. In certain states, the sun will be completely blocked out and they could experience a 10 degree or higher drop in temperature.

For San Diego, the partial total eclipse will begin at 9:07 am. The max coverage will happen at 10:32 am with a 58% coverage, and it will end at 11:46 am. The moon will first appear in the upper left area of the sun and then move across to the lower left. While the movement may seem slow, did you know the moon is actually moving at 2,288 mph?

Make sure you are wearing the proper eye protection if you plan to look at the eclipse at any point. Even a partial eclipse can cause temporary blindness, blurred vision, and damage your retina. When purchasing the special glasses, the item should be labeled ISO standard or ISO 12312-2. Many retailers in San Diego will be selling them, including 7-11.

If you want a VIP viewing, The Fleet in Balboa Park will have a viewing party starting at 9:00 am. They will have astronomers with professional, eclipse-equipped telescopes to see an up-close view of the coverage. NASA will be projecting a live broadcast starting at 8:30 am, which will be playing in the theater screen in The Fleet. The weather forecast predicts there may be a marine layer blocking the sun, so viewing at The Fleet may be your best option to experience the eclipse.

[Photo Credit: NASA.gov]