The Incredible Moment When New Jersey Will Go Dark That Will Go Down In History

An eclipse isn’t necessarily a rare astrological event, but you have to be in the right place at the right time to see one. The last solar eclipse New Jerseyans had the chance to witness was back in 2013, but cloud cover over most of the state meant not many were able to see it. The last visible solar eclipse was all the way back in 2000. On Christmas Day, chilly New Jerseyans gathered outside to witness the moon obscure 55 percent of the sun.

Flickr/Anders Knudsen

55 percent is significant but not as significant as the 1994 New Jersey eclipse, which covered 84 percent of the sun. I remember watching it with my classmates, using a pinhole projection. You can also view safely with solar filters (eclipse glasses); regular sunglasses do not offer enough protection.

This year's eclipse is set to occur on August 21st. New Jerseyans will be able to observe 73 percent of the sun being covered by the moon. The eclipse will last just over two hours. To see a total eclipse, one would need to be located along a seventy mile wide stretch along the eclipse's path between Oregon and South Carolina, but I'm completely content with a partial eclipse.

Flickr/Allen

Why? Because the path runs from coast to coast, something that hasn't happened since 1918. I'd say that's reason enough to celebrate. One way to get in the spirit is by heading to the planetarium at Newark Museum. They will be airing Eclipse: The Sun Revealed at 3 p.m. daily between August 15th-17th. Another way to enjoy? Head to Eclipse Brewing at 25 E Park Ave., Merchantville. It has absolutely nothing to do with the eclipse but you'll be supporting New Jersey's burgeoning craft brewery scene.

For a preview of the planetarium show, see the short video below:

For more information on the 2017 eclipse, including safe viewing tips, check out NASA’s website. For more summer fun in New Jersey, check out this riverfront bar & grill or this lazy river.