The 2017 Solar Eclipse will occur on Monday, August 21 and the first Total Solar Eclipse in 99 years to be seen coast to coast in the US!  The 2017 solar eclipse will run diagonally across the nation from Oregon in the Northwest to Charleston, SC in the southeast.

Total solar eclipses occur every two or three years but we usually only hear about them on the news because they were only visible on Antarctica or some other place we’d love to visit, but probably never will.  This one is different.  Over 100 Million Americans live within a days drive of the ‘path of totality’ ( The path of totality is the band of locations that will experience 100% darkness as the moon moves in front of the sun and casts a shadow on earth).

What’s the difference between a solar eclipse and a total solar eclipse?

Great Question! A solar eclipse occurs when the moon passes between Earth and the sun. A total eclipse is when the moon completely blocks out the sunlight.  The moon will cast a shadow on Earth and briefly turn day into night. The total eclipse coming up in August will last up to 2 minutes and 40 seconds in some locations.

Will we see the 2017 Solar Eclipse in Central Florida?

In Central Florida, we on the periphery of the 2017 Solar Eclipse path so we won’t experience complete darkness.  But we will experience a partial eclipse with 80-91% coverage at it’s maximum…. which is still pretty awesome.  Our views of the partial eclipse will begin shortly after 1pm and end shortly after 4pm.  Keep an eye on the weather forecast as the eclipse approaches so you can choose the best spot to view the action.

It’s a great opportunity to spend some time with family and friends and enjoy a unique experience together.  The next total eclipse that will be visible from Central Florida isn’t until 2045.

Want to take your eclipse experience to the next level?

If you want to take your eclipse viewing to the next level and get the ‘Total’ experience there is still time to plan a family trip to a city in the path of totality.  The closest location to Central Florida that is hosting over 100 Total eclipse events is Charleston, SC.  Check out Eclipse Packages HERE

Other cities hosting Total Eclipse Blowouts this August include Jefferson City, MO, Lincoln, NE, Nashville, Casper, WY and Columbia, SC.

Do I need to wear those glasses to view the 2017 Solar Eclipse?

The short answer is Yes.  The only time it is safe to look at Solar Eclipse without eye protection is when the moon completely blocks out the Sun.  That means for those of us viewing the eclipse in Central Florida, we will need to have glasses on the entire time because we will only be seeing a partial eclipse.  You can check out more safety info and certified brands of eclipse viewing glasses on the NASA Total eclipse safety page.

Another option is viewing the eclipse through a pinhole projector like the one pictured.  They can be made with items you can find in your house like index cards or paper plates.  It can also be a fun DIY activity to do with the kids to get them excited about the event. Check out some DIY pinhole projector ideas HERE.

The Clean Cans family knows the importance of spending time and sharing experiences with loved ones and friends.  And an experience that hasn’t occurred in 99 years… well that’ll definitely create some memories.

Remember to take time to have fun, try new things, and surround yourself with the people who are most important to you.  Don’t let household chores or property maintenance get in the way ( especially your horribly stinky, dirty trash can).  Go out and enjoy yourself. Let us do the dirty work!