ESCANABA, Mich. (WZMQ) – On Monday, April 8, the Delta Astronomical Society (DAS) invites the community to view the solar eclipse as it passes over Escanaba.
The group will meet at the Ludington Park gazebo for the duration of the eclipse. According to DAS President Matt Jensen, it will begin at approximately 1:57 p.m. The eclipse should be at its maximum around 3:11 p.m. and conclude just after 4:00 p.m.
Although viewing conditions may not be ideal, that won’t keep the Delta Astronomical Society from looking up.
“Unfortunately, it’s looking like we’re going to be mostly cloudy,” Jensen said. “About 80% cloud cover. We’ll have about 82 – 83% of the full eclipse here in Escanaba. Hopefully, we’ll get a break in the clouds.”
Jensen says despite the likely cloud coverage, it is still extremely dangerous to look at the eclipse without proper protective gear.
“The ultraviolet radiation is still there and can definitely still affect your vision,” he explained. “Even if it’s cloudy, it’s just as dangerous.”
Anyone planning to view the eclipse must bring their own eclipse glasses and safe viewing devices. Jensen says it is crucial to only use official, reliable products.
“If you’re going to get glasses, make sure you use solar viewing glasses from a reputable American company,” he said. “If you’re going to use a cell phone or laptop or tablet, make sure you have solar viewing filters on those, otherwise it will burn out the camera.”
Visit the Delta Astronomical Society Facebook page for more information on the group.
WZMQ 19 will have a special live broadcast on Monday, April 8, beginning at 3:00 p.m. Eastern.
