Asheville, North Carolina will soon be plunged into darkness as a total solar eclipse sweeps across North America. This rare celestial event is set to captivate millions of people as the path of totality moves from Texas, through the Midwest, East Coast, and even touches southeast Canada before disappearing out to sea.
For those who miss the 2024 eclipse, the next opportunity to witness a total solar eclipse in the U.S. won’t come until 2044, when Montana and North Dakota will experience temporary darkness. While Asheville may not be in the path of totality for the upcoming eclipse, residents can still expect to see around 85% coverage during the peak of the event on April 8, making it one of the prime viewing locations in North Carolina.
NASA describes a total solar eclipse as a phenomenon where the Moon passes between the Sun and Earth, completely blocking the Sun’s face and causing the sky to darken as if it were dawn or dusk. In Asheville, the eclipse is scheduled to begin at 1:51 p.m. on April 8, with maximum coverage at 3:09 p.m. as the moon obscures most of the sun’s disk in the area before ending at 4:24 p.m.
To safely view the eclipse, it is crucial to wear protective eyewear to prevent eye injury or blindness. Eclipse watchers are advised to use solar eclipse glasses with an ISO rating of 12,312, as recommended by the American Astronomical Society. Additionally, educational opportunities abound in Western North Carolina leading up to the eclipse, offering a chance for enthusiasts to learn more about this rare cosmic event.
Several Asheville breweries are hosting eclipse events on April 8, providing an opportunity for locals and visitors to gather and enjoy the spectacle together. From viewing parties at Fairview’s Turgua Brewing Co. and Highland Brewing’s Rooftop to an eclipse-viewing party at The Whale, there are plenty of options to celebrate the eclipse in style.
For those looking for different eclipse viewing opportunities in the area, the Nantahala Outdoor Center and Grandfather Mountain are offering special events on April 8, each providing a unique experience of the eclipse. These events include outdoor activities with glasses provided, ensuring a safe and memorable viewing experience for all attendees.
As the anticipation builds for the upcoming total solar eclipse in Asheville, it’s essential to remember to bring eclipse glasses to protect your eyes during the event. For more information on the eclipse timing and best viewing locations in Western North Carolina, residents can check local resources and guides. Will Hofmann, the Growth and Development Reporter for the Asheville Citizen Times, encourages tips and insights related to the eclipse event.