Are You Ready for the 2017 Solar Eclipse?

Did you know a solar eclipse is due in August of 2017? Did you also know the eclipse will be visible in many parts of the United States? The 2017 Solar Eclipse promises to be something special and many people are planning far ahead for this event. Here is important information to know about the eclipse, along with tips for preparation.

How Rare is the Eclipse?

Total eclipses are rare in most areas of the US. In fact, it has been nearly 40 years since the last one was visible. But the truth is, total solar eclipses occur about every year and a half on average. However, the visibility is usually quite limited. To give you an idea of how exclusive visibility can be, in 2008, you needed to be in the Canadian Arctic Archipelago (farthest northern point in Canada) and in 2010, nothing short of a journey to Easter Island would give you a proper view of the eclipse. As you can see, an event like the upcoming 2017 solar eclipse is unusual.

The Great American Eclipse

In 2017 the solar eclipse will have a special meaning to Americans and those visiting the country. The path of totality (where the total eclipse can be viewed) will be confined to the United States. At least twelve million people will not have to travel any farther than their own backyards to view the event and millions more will not be too far away. In fact, people on both coasts of the country will be able to see it.

The Great American Eclipse will begin in Oregon and then sweep across the country including the states of Idaho, Kansas, Missouri and all the way to North and South Carolina. The path (where the total eclipse can be viewed) will be close to 70 miles wide.

You’ll Need to View Quickly

There will not be a great deal of time to view the August 21, 2017 solar eclipse. In fact, on the west coast you’ll have about 2 minutes and even in the Midwest and on eastern coast, the most time you will have is about two and one half minutes. The start time will vary according to your location but in Oregon is will begin somewhere around 10 am PDT. By the time it gets to St. Joseph Missouri (one of the best spots for viewing) it will be about 1 pm CDT. About 2:40 pm EDT, expect the total solar eclipse to begin in Columbia, South Carolina.

Make sure to buy your eclipse viewers far ahead of time. In fact, you might want to order them online to be sure you get what you want.