Brought to you by WBIW News and Network Indiana
Last updated on Friday, August 18, 2017
(BEDFORD) - On Monday, for the first time in nearly a century, for about three minutes - a total solar eclipse will be visible from coast-to-coast. This is the first total coast-to-coast solar eclipse since 1918.
Bedford isn't in the path of totality, but will see 94.84 percent coverage. In Bedford the eclipse will begin at 12:57 p.m., last 2:25:31 minutes and end at 3:49 p.m.
According to NASA, a solar eclipse takes place during the new moon, when the moon passes in front of the sun, completely blocking the sun's radiant light. This causes a shadow to be cast on the Earth.
The path of the total eclipse, referred to as the path of totality, will sweep across the U.S. from the Oregon coast to the South Carolina coast between 10:17 a.m. and 2:47 p.m. While the entire country will be able to see the eclipse, it will not appear the same everywhere. As the Earth spins during the eclipse, certain sections of the U.S. will see different versions: a partial or a total shadow.
And while Indiana isn't in the path of totality, a partial shadow will be visible. In some cities the eclipse will be more visible than others. Evansville is the best place in the state to view the eclipse with 99 percent coverage; New Albany will be at 95.7; Bloomington at 93.9 percent; Salem at 95.3; Brownstown at 94.7 percent; Columbus at 92 percent; Indianapolis at 91.5 percent; Richmond at 89.5 percent; Kokomo at 89.1 percent; Gary at 87.2 percent; and South Bend at 85.5 percent.
Safe Viewing
Looking directly into the sun can do serious damage to one's eyesight, which is why it's imperative to take the proper safety precautions before viewing the eclipse.
Officials say the only safe way to view a partial solar eclipse is using special solar filters, such as 'eclipse glasses' or hand-held solar viewers.
In Bedford, you can watch the solar eclipse from the Bedford Public Library lawn from 1-4 p.m. Lemonade will be served, while those attending learn about the eclipse and make a handheld fan. There will also be a box viewer and eclipse viewing glasses available.
In Mitchell, residents can join Mitchell Library officials on the Mitchell High School Football Field to view the eclipse from 1-3:30 p.m. Glasses, pinhole viewers and the Dobsonian telescope will be available for safe viewing. Activities, such as making a pinhole viewer and measuring the eclipse, will also be shared.
1340 AM WBIW welcomes comments and suggestions by calling 812.277.1340 during normal business hours or by email at comments@wbiw.com
© Ad-Venture Media, Inc. All Rights Reserved.