See the First U.S. Continental Total Solar Eclipse Since 1979!

By David Dundee

On Monday, August 21, 2017, be sure to block out the afternoon to catch an amazing, rare spectacle. Stretching from Salem, Oregon all the way to Charleston, South Carolina, the total solar eclipse will be a sight you wont get to see again across the U.S. until 2024.

The metro Atlanta area will see between 95-97% of the Sun eclipsed. Locally, the eclipse will begin around 1:00pm EDT and reach a maximum at about 2:30pm EDT. The eclipse will end at 4:00pm EDT. The northeast portion of the state will be the closest path to see totality; however, the mountainous regions could be hindered by cloud coverage. Weather, of course, is a very important factor to consider when making your eclipse observation plans.

Solar eclipses occur when the Moon is perfectly lined up between the Earth and the Sun. This can only happen at the time of a New Moon. Usually, there are two or three solar eclipses every year, but they are not all visible from our region.

During the eclipse, the sky will appear much like it does at twilight. While it wont be totally dark, you will certainly notice that the Sun is not as bright as normal. Be cautious when driving. Better yet, make plans to NOT be driving, so you wont miss this fantastic astronomical event.

For best observing, please remember the Sun is always dangerous to look at. Never observe the Sun without the proper filters and without someone with you who knows how to observe the Sun safely.

Canton

Family Life Publications Hosts Fade to Black! Solar Eclipse Social 2017
August 21, 1:30-3:30pm
Cannon Park
130 E Main Street, Canton
- FREE eye protection at the gazebo while supplies last!

North Fulton

Chattahoochee Nature Center (CNC) Hosts Solar Eclipse Viewing
August 21, 2:00-3:00pm
9135 Willeo Road, Roswell
- Solar viewing goggles will be provided.
- For more information, visit ChattNatureCenter.org, or call 770-992-2055

Woodstock

City of Woodstock Parks and Recreation Department Hosts Dark in the Park Viewing Party for the 2017 Solar Eclipse
August 21, 1:00-4:00pm
Northside Hospital Cherokee Amphitheater
101 Arnold Mill Road, Woodstock
- Eye protection will be provided for the first 200 people.
- Bring blankets and lawn chairs.
- Enjoy music, activities, food and a moonwalk.