Solar Eclipse 2024
On Monday, April 8, 2024, a total solar eclipse will be seen from parts of Maine. The planetary math magic that allows for the moon to block the sun is pure luck – the sun is about 400 times larger than our tiny moon but the moon is about 400 times closer to us than the sun, meaning that it can periodically block the sun completely from earth’s view.
In 2024, the moon will completely cover the sun for about three minutes and the eclipse’s path of totality will only be visible in several states including parts of Maine and parts of New Hampshire, Vermont, New York, Pennsylvania, Ohio, Michigan, Indiana, Illinois, Kentucky, Missouri, Arkansas, Oklahoma, and Texas. This is the last total solar eclipse in this hemisphere for 20 years and you won’t want to miss it!
While all of Maine will experience the eclipse, only some communities are in its path of totality, where the umbra – or moon’s shadow – will be completely covering the sun, creating an eerily darkened sky and a glowing ring around the sun. Most of Aroostook County will be in the path of totality and communities are gearing up for a day of excitement. Houlton – the last town in the continental U.S. to see the event and one of the places to experience the longest period of total darkness in Maine – is expecting many visitors who want to witness the rare occurrence. Other area towns along the path include Island Falls and Presque Isle. Aroostook County is also where the Maine Solar System Model is located and perfect for visitors looking to enjoy further celestial wonders. The Maine Solar System is the largest 3-D scale model of the solar system in the western hemisphere and spans nearly 100 miles from Houlton to Presque Isle along Route 1.
Other regions in Maine will be in the path of totality as well and are planning for the event. The town of Millinocket is getting into the fun with a “Millinockeclipse” road race, timed to take place during the eclipse. Rangeley, Greenville, Jackman, and Carrabassett Valley will also experience approximately three minutes of totality and will be excellent viewing locations.
For more information on planning your trip to Maine to see the 2024 solar eclipse, click here. To check out the best locations to experience Maine’s night skies at any time of year, click here.
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