Preparing for the 2024 Solar Eclipse in Buffalo NY
Mark your calendars for April and September 2024, when Buffalo, New York, will experience both a solar and lunar eclipse. The moon will pass between the sun and Earth on April 8, 2024, resulting in a total solar eclipse visible from Buffalo. Then, just 4 months later, on September 25, 2024, a lunar eclipse will be visible from Buffalo.
What’s the Difference Between a Solar and Lunar Eclipse?
When the moon and Earth align precisely, we experience a solar eclipse where the sun’s illumination is temporarily blocked out. Conversely, when our planet passes between the sun and moon, that’s when a lunar eclipse occurs. It results in part or all of the moon becoming invisible to us on Earth.
In each case, an eclipse could either be total or partial, depending on the alignment of the three bodies during the eclipse. The moon completely blocks the sun during a total solar eclipse, whereas only part of the sun is blocked during a partial solar eclipse. Similarly, during a total lunar eclipse, Earth completely blocks out the moon’s light, and the moon appears to have a reddish hue, often referred to as a blood moon. On the other hand, during a partial lunar eclipse, only part of the moon will be darkened.
Can You See the Lunar Eclipse in Buffalo, New York?
Yes, if you’re in Buffalo, New York, on September 25, 2024, you will be able to view the partial lunar eclipse. If you can’t wait that long, a partial 2024 solar eclipse will also be visible in Buffalo on October 14, 2023.
No special equipment is needed to view a lunar eclipse. All you need is your own two eyes. However, a telescope or pair of binoculars can help you get a better view of the eclipse, especially if you’re looking for subtle color changes or details on the moon’s surface.
What Time Will The 2024 Eclipse Happen?
The solar eclipse in Buffalo, New York, will happen at 10:12 a.m. local time on April 8, 2024. For the partial lunar eclipse, the moon will rise at 8:37 p.m. and reach its peak at 10:40 p.m., with the total eclipse lasting until 12:51 a.m.
An eclipse typically has what is known as a path of totality, which is the swath of land over which the total eclipse will be visible. Unfortunately, Buffalo is outside the path for both eclipses in 2024. That means that while you can view them from Buffalo, they won’t reach their full potential. Eye protection is essential during a partial solar eclipse since the sun is still visible, which could hurt your vision if you look directly at it.
Suppose you can’t visit Buffalo, New York, to view the 2024 eclipse. In that case, there are several other eclipse opportunities around the U.S. In 2024, the solar eclipse will be visible from Texas, while a total lunar eclipse will be visible from the Pacific Northwest.
How Long Will the 2024 Solar Eclipse Last?
The solar eclipse in Buffalo, New York, on April 8, 2024, will last for about 2 minutes and 30 seconds. The sky will darken significantly during that time because the moon blocks the sun’s light. The partial lunar eclipse on September 25, 2024, will last about 3 hours and 16 minutes. The moon will look partially covered by a dark shadow during this time.
The only equipment you will need to view the solar eclipse in Buffalo, New York, is a pair of certified solar glasses. At American Paper Optics, you can buy certified solar eclipse glasses with a special filter that will protect your eyes and allow you to view the eclipse safely.
Be sure to mark your calendar for April 8, 2024, and September 25, 2024, so you can witness all the wonder these eclipses offer!
Safely view the 2024 Solar Eclipse, and buy Eclipse Glasses online today!
