Dozens gathered at the Olds Ramada Inn this week, brandishing welding helmets and goofy glasses to catch a glimpse of a rare total eclipse that was partially visible in Central Alberta, yesterday (Monday, Aug. 21).
A total eclipse occurs when the moon passes in front of the sun, blocking out the light for a fraction of time. One occurs somewhere on earth about every 18 months, but often they are only viewable in remote locations.
Monday's event was the first total solar eclipse in 99 years to cross the United States coast to coast, and was dubbed the Great American Eclipse ñ complete with its own website and merchandise. For those directly in the path of totality, the skies grew dark for about two-and-a-half minutes in the middle of the day.
While the total eclipse was only viewable along a certain path ñ in this case one that stretched from Salem, Oregon southeast towards Charleston, South Carolina ñ it was still partially viewable for those bordering the trajectory, including much of Canada. In Central Alberta, the moon covered the sun almost 80 per cent at 11:33 a.m., still making for a notable event.
The Boys and Girls Club of Olds held a waffle brunch Monday morning as the eclipse crept over town, and gave locals a chance to take a peak through protective glasses that block out 99 per cent of the sun's light. The result was a glowing orange crescent shape -- and some wild refractions for those who chanced the viral internet suggestion of selfie-ing with the sun.
MORE: For more information about the eclipse go to www.greatamericaneclipse.com.
