Partial solar eclipse visible across eastern Canada Saturday morning

NASA image of a partial solar eclipse at sunrise. The view would be quite similar in Montreal at sunrise Saturday morning, until 7:13AM, if only skies were clear. A strong late season storm is forecast to bring clouds and snow to the region tonight into Saturday. (NASA)

If you live in extreme eastern Canada or the northeastern US, dust off your solar eclipse glasses from last April. A partial solar eclipse will take place at sunrise across eastern Canada on Saturday morning, March 29. The eclipse will be most visible across portions of Northern Quebec and Nunavut, where up to 90 percent of the sun will be shaded by the passing moon. That includes nearly 92 percent in Iqualit. By comparison Montreal will have a maximum of 47 percent with St. John's and Halifax at 83 percent.

Across the remainder of Quebec from the Ontario border east, as well as portions of Vermont, New Hampshire, Maine and Atlantic Canada, the eclipse will range from 8 to 45 percent.

Here in Montreal, stormy weather will likely spoil the celestial view at sunrise. But if skies were clear, the eclipse would begin at 5:29AM, becoming visible with the sunrise around 6:39AM, reaching maximum at 6:42AM and ending by 7:13AM. The visible portion will last approximately 34 minutes here in Montreal, and cover up to 47 percent of the sun. Once again, the weather will likely not be favourable for viewing.

As with any solar eclipse, it is important not to stare directly into the sun. Approved solar eclipse glasses must be worn at all times to view the eclipse or stare directly into the sun at any time. Damage can occur very quickly to your eyes.

If you are fortunate enough to have clear skies at your location, then enjoy the view, have fun and be safe.