A partial solar eclipse will be viewable in southern Alberta on Monday, April 8, 2024. (Photo: Nikkytok | Dreamstime.com)

By David Opinko

Partial solar eclipse to be visible in southern Alberta

Apr 4, 2024 | 11:24 AM

LETHBRIDGE, AB – People in southern Alberta will be able to witness a “breathtaking celestial display” next week.

On Monday, April 8, the moon will obscure the sun, creating a solar eclipse. Although people in the eastern sections of North America will be able to see a total solar eclipse, those here can look at a partial eclipse.

Chair of the Department of Physics and Astronomy at the University of Lethbridge Dr. Locke Spencer says it will be a sight to behold either way.

“We look forward to sharing this unforgettable experience with the community and fostering a deeper appreciation for the wonders of the cosmos,” says Spencer.

In the Lethbridge area, the eclipse will start just after 11:45 a.m., reach its maximum at 12:43 p.m. and end at 1:41 p.m.

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At its peak, just over 30 per cent of the sun’s area will be blocked by the moon, about four per cent more than the eclipse in Calgary.

The Lethbridge Astronomy Society is hosting a free observing event at the Oldman River Observatory in Popson Park (T1J 4A2). Space is limited and registration on the group’s Eventbrite page is required.

Looking at the sun directly without proper eye protection can cause permanent eye damage. It is highly recommended that anybody wishing to view the eclipse wear approved solar viewing glasses or other safe viewing methods. More details on how to view eclipses safely are available on the NASA website.

READ MORE: Lethbridge News Now

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