Approaching eclipse will bring heavenly show to our area

On Monday, August 21, people will be able to view a total solar eclipse as it moves eastward through the U.S. from Oregon to South Carolina. A total eclipse occurs when the sun, moon, and the earth meet in a straight line, thus allowing the moon to obscure the sun and making the sun’s corona visible for watchers.

Crowds are already predicted to be visiting what is called the path of totality, a 65 mile wide strip where the sun will be seen to be completely covered by the moon. According to a map created by an engineer in France, Wahkiakum County is north of that area, but residents will still be able to see the moon cover 97 percent of the sun.

The whole event is expected to begin about 9 a.m. and last nearly three hours. The moon is expected to completely cover the sun for about two minutes for viewers in the path of totality.

Viewers are warned not to look directly at the sun, as it can cause permanent damage to the eyes. All are advised to wear protective glasses or create pinhole projectors. Sunglasses are not enough.

For more information, go to https://eclipse2017.nasa.gov.