New York Begins Preparations for Total Eclipse Coming in April

By C.G. Hoffman

For the first time in 99 years, parts of New York will witness the breathtaking sight of a total solar eclipse. The rare and stunning spectacle will take place during the afternoon of Monday, April 8, and will be most visible in the western and northern parts of New York State.

A total solar eclipse is when the moon passes between the sun and Earth, completely blocking the face of the sun. People who view the eclipse from the center of the moon’s shadow when it hits Earth will experience a total eclipse. In this event, the moon will pass between the earth and the sun, turning day into night for 1 1/2 to 3 1/2 minutes. The entire experience will last for up to 2 1/2 hours, from when the sun is first obstructed until the last moment when the moon’s shadow is cast.

Although the full experience will only be visible to southwestern and northern New York, viewers in the city will also be treated to quite the sky show. New York City will see 89% coverage, making for quite a view, if not as spectacular as those cities that will experience the path of totality.

The governor announced that she has put together a task force for the celestial event, collaborating on plans to ensure the experience is safe for New York residents and visitors. The State expects an influx of eclipse enthusiasts, with the accompanying traffic and overbooked hotels. The task force has launched a campaign with an accompanying special eclipse website, which can be found here that shows ideal viewing locations and additional instructions for safe eclipse viewing.

Visitors can download a special edition eclipse poster here created through an I LOVE NY partnership to help promote and commemorate the once-in-a-lifetime eclipse.