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Seeing a total solar eclipse is a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity, and Maine is in its direct path this year. Here is everything you need to know about the 2024 Solar Eclipse and where you can view it in Maine.
What Is A Total Solar Eclipse?
A total solar eclipse occurs when the Moon passes directly between the Earth and the Sun, completely obscuring the Sun’s disk and casting a shadow on the Earth. During a total solar eclipse, the Moon’s shadow creates a temporary darkness, known as totality, in the areas along the eclipse’s path.
Total solar eclipses are rare and spectacular events that captivate observers worldwide. The Moon’s apparent size is large enough to completely cover the Sun’s disk, creating an awe-inspiring sight in the sky.
During totality, the Sun’s outer atmosphere, known as the corona, becomes visible as a faint halo surrounding the darkened disk of the Moon. This is one of the few times when the corona, usually obscured by the Sun’s glare, can be observed directly.
When is The Total Solar Eclipse In Maine?
The total solar eclipse will come to Maine on April 8, 2024. It will start at 3:28 pm EDT, with the final exit of the Moon’s shadow from the state at 3:35 pm EDT.
In Maine, the speed of the Moon’s shadow will accelerate from about 2690 miles per hour to about 3175 miles per hour.
The Best Places To See The 2024 Solar Eclipse In Maine
The total solar eclipse will be most visible in northern Maine, near the Canadian Border. While the information is changing often, here are today’s best places for the solar eclipse in Maine.
1. Millinocket
*3 hours from Portland
Visit Millinocket, which is located outside of Baxter State Park. The partial eclipse starts at 2:20 p.m. EDT, while the total eclipse begins at 3:30 p.m. EDT. The duration of totality is 3 minutes, 24 seconds, with the partial eclipse ending at 4:40 p.m. EDT.
There are a variety of events going by the New England Outdoor Center. Tickets are expensive, starting at $175 per person. Many ticket options include food, beverages, glasses, and more.
Purchase event tickets here.
Can I View It From Mount Katahdin?
While viewing the eclipse from the top of Mount Katahdin is tempting, it is nearly impossible in April. No roads lead to the area of the mountain, and while some brave souls may hike it, it is not recommended.
Baxter State Park released a statement saying “We recommend that those interested in viewing the solar eclipse in the Katahdin Region seek viewing locations that are outside of the Park.“
Find more information from Baxter State Park here.
2. Houlton
*3 hours 30 minutes from Portland
Houlton is located in the center of the solar eclipse pathway. It is a town in Aroostook County, Maine, United States, in the northern part of the state, near the Canadian border.
Houlton is even having a Maine Eclipse Festival Weekend from April 5th to April 8th. You can participate in a brewfest, solar system lunch tour, and more.
3. Caribou
*4 hours and 30 minutes from Portland
Caribou, Maine, is another fantastic place to view the Solar Eclipse In Maine. It is also located in Aroostook County. Caribou is one of the larger cities in Aroostook County and serves as the region’s commercial and cultural hub.
The partial eclipse begins at 2:22 p.m. EDT, and the total eclipse starts at 3:32 p.m. EDT. The viewing time will be about 2 minutes and 9 minutes. The partial eclipse will end around 4:40 p.m.
I could not find any events in Caribou, which means it could be a calmer place to watch the eclipse.
Total Solar Eclipse In Maine Map
Here is the map provided by the Great American Eclipse.
Tips For Viewing The Solar Eclipse
Here are some tips for viewing the Solar Eclipse In Maine!
- Plan your solar eclipse viewing location, and have a backup!
- Purchase your eclipse glasses. They will sell out! I was able to grab mine at Walmart, but I have also seen them in gas stations throughout Maine.
- Arrive at the viewing location early.
- If possible, spend the night near the location to avoid highway traffic.
- Fill your gas tank! Traffic can be very heavy.
- Bring snacks and food in case of delays and long lines.
- Watch the local weather as they will help guide you to the best viewing locations that day.
Visiting Maine for the first time? Check out my list of hiking trails in Maine.
Here are some of my favorite Lobster Rolls in Maine. You can even try Lobster Ice Cream during your visit.
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