MAINE, USA — You may have heard Maine is about to be front-and-center when it comes to a total solar eclipse in April. But what should you know before the big event?
We've rounded up some of the basics.
Here's the timeline
Maine will be the final stop of the total solar eclipse in the United States on April 8, first crossing through Texas, the mid-southern regions, and the Ohio Valley.
Just after 2 p.m., the solar eclipse will be in effect in the western mountains of the state and will reach totality in Rangeley at approximately 3:30 p.m.
The darkest part of the moon's shadow, called the umbra, will head northeast to Houlton including towns such as Jackman, Dover-Foxcroft, Lincoln, and Millinocket.
Totality will be reached in Houlton by approximately 3:33 p.m.
Even if you're not in the path of totality, that doesn't mean you'll miss out. Upwards of 90 percent of the full eclipse will be seen in all parts of Maine.
When was the last total solar eclipse in Maine?
The last solar eclipse that passed through Maine happened in 1963, more than 80 years ago.
You won't want to miss the event on April 8, because the next time a full solar eclipse will happen over the state will be in 2079.
If you're making plans, many towns across the state are holding events to celebrate.
How can you safely view the eclipse?
Solar eclipses are quite the sight—but only when you have proper eye protection.
It is never safe to look directly at a solar eclipse, as doing so can damage your eyes permanently or even cause blindness, according to the American Academy of Ophthalmology.
To avoid eye damage, solar filters or eclipse glasses are strongly recommended. Regular sunglasses or homemade filters will not offer adequate protection.
According to NASA, viewing glasses should comply with the ISO 12312-2 international safety standard.
What is a solar eclipse?
A solar eclipse happens when the sun, moon, and Earth align, with the moon passing between the sun and the Earth. This is different than a lunar eclipse when the Earth passes between the sun and the moon.
There are different kinds of solar eclipses such as total, annular, partial, and hybrid depending on alignment and Earth's tilt. The kind we'll experience during the afternoon on April 8 is a total solar eclipse, where the moon will completely block the sun.