Anyone up at the break of dawn on Saturday could have a chance to reuse the glasses they purchased for last spring’s total solar eclipse, as the moon prepares to take a “bite” out of the sun.
As the sun rises at 6:40 a.m., the partial eclipse should be viewable in Montreal.
“As the sun is rising, the moon is going to block out some of the sun,” said Plateau Astro founder Trevor Kjorlien.
However, there is a big “if.”
The weather forecast overnight is calling for snow and cloudy skies between 6 a.m. and 7 a.m.
If visible, viewers must wear eclipse glasses or risk eye damage.
To see it, one needs a clear view of the eastern horizon as the sun rises.
Those unable to watch the eclipse in person can watch it online using one of the various livestreams available.
Kjorlien says that unlike the complete solar eclipse, this type of partial eclipse happens about every two years.
Recently, however, Montreal has been blessed with a cluster of solar events.
“We’ve had a few the last couple of years,” he said. “We could just be in a bit of a cycle right now. They go through repeatable cycles… They do come around. They’re not super rare.”
- READ MORE: Q&A: Myths and legends of a solar eclipse
The next partial eclipse is set for Aug. 12, 2026.
“Summertime, 1 p.m., that sounds like a much more doable partial solar eclipse to view,” quipped Kjorlien.
