A partial solar eclipse enthralled spectators in Newfoundland and Labrador on Wednesday afternoon as they gazed at the sky, weather permitting. Churchill Falls witnessed the beginning of the partial eclipse at 1:37 AT (2:07 NT), with the phenomenon gradually unfolding across the province. The eclipse is expected to conclude in St. John’s at 4:37 p.m. NT, with around 50% of the sun covered by the moon in Newfoundland.
At the Johnson Geo Centre in St. John’s, an enthusiastic crowd, equipped with special safety viewing glasses, observed the moon’s slow journey across the sun. The viewing event, in collaboration with the Royal Astronomical Society of Canada and STEM Girls, ran from 12 p.m. NT to 5 p.m. NT.
Memorial University astronomer Hiding Neilson, excitedly observed the eclipse through his telescope, describing the experience as “wonderful.” Neilson highlighted the uniqueness of solar eclipses in our solar system, emphasizing that they are a rare occurrence, happening approximately every 50 years.
Andrea van Nostrand, lead of education and interpretation at the Geo Centre, expressed anticipation for the event, mentioning engaging activities for children to create solar viewing tools to safely observe the eclipse. The event was deemed “pretty spectacular,” with spectators marveling at the sight of the moon passing in front of the sun.
A total solar eclipse was set to be visible across Greenland, Iceland, Spain, and a small part of Portugal. Recalling their experience viewing a total eclipse two years ago, mother-daughter duo Jennifer Waye and Gabriela Fuentes Waye traveled to Spain to witness the event once again. They explained their choice of location based on favorable weather conditions and family ties to Spain.
In Canada, regions farther north and east were expected to witness a more complete solar eclipse, with Alert, Nunavut, anticipated to have the best view, with 94% of the sun covered. The rarity of such events was emphasized by experts, with spectators relishing the opportunity to witness this celestial spectacle.
The article originally appeared on CBC News.