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The skies above Arlington, Virginia, are set to transform on Monday, April 8, 2024, as a remarkable celestial event unfolds—a partial solar eclipse that promises to captivate residents and astronomy enthusiasts alike. While not experiencing the full totality seen in other parts of North America, Arlington will witness an impressive 85-90% solar coverage that will create a breathtaking astronomical spectacle.
Eclipse Details for Arlington
| Event Characteristic | Specific Information |
|---|---|
| Date | Monday, April 8, 2024 |
| Eclipse Type | Partial Solar Eclipse |
| Start Time | 2:04 PM |
| Peak Time | 3:20 PM |
| End Time | 4:33 PM |
| Eclipse Magnitude | 0.829 - 0.891 |
| Total Duration | 2 hours, 28-29 minutes |
Local Viewing Opportunities
Arlington offers several exciting locations for eclipse viewing, ensuring residents can safely experience this rare astronomical event:Gateway Park Eclipse Event
The Rosslyn BID is hosting a stellar eclipse-watching event at Gateway Park from 2 p.m. to 4 p.m. Highlights include:
- Music performances
- Lawn games
- Eclipse viewing courtesy of the Northern Virginia Astronomy Club (NOVAC)
- Free solar glasses for safe viewing
Safety First: Protecting Your Eyes
⚠️ Note: Never look directly at the sun without proper eye protection. Special solar eclipse glasses are mandatory to prevent permanent eye damage.
Where to Get Eclipse Glasses in Arlington
| Location | Eclipse Glasses Availability |
|---|---|
| Virginia State Parks | $1 per pair at visitor centers |
| DC Public Library | Free glasses while supplies last |
| Warby Parker | Two free pairs per family |
| MyEyeDr | Free glasses at multiple locations |
Understanding the Eclipse Phenomenon
A solar eclipse occurs when the Moon passes between the Sun and Earth, casting a shadow on our planet. In Arlington, residents will experience a partial eclipse, where the Moon will cover approximately 85-90% of the sun’s surface. The sky will dim slightly, creating an ethereal midday twilight effect.
Eclipse Stages
- First Contact: When the Moon first touches the Sun’s edge
- Maximum Eclipse: Peak moment of solar coverage
- Last Contact: When the Moon moves away from the Sun
The next solar eclipse visible from the United States won't occur until 2044, making this a truly once-in-a-generation event for Arlington residents.
Do I need special glasses to view the eclipse?
+Yes, absolutely! Regular sunglasses are NOT safe. You must use certified solar eclipse glasses that block harmful solar radiation to protect your eyes.
What percentage of the sun will be covered in Arlington?
+Arlington will experience approximately 85-90% solar coverage during the partial eclipse on April 8, 2024.
When is the best time to view the eclipse in Arlington?
+The peak viewing time in Arlington will be around 3:20 PM on April 8, 2024. The entire eclipse event will last from 2:04 PM to 4:33 PM.