On April 8th, 2024, a total solar eclipse will captivate millions across North America as the Moon perfectly aligns between the Sun and Earth, casting a shadow that will traverse Mexico, the United States, and Canada. While the path of totality will not directly pass over Long Island, residents can still witness a significant partial eclipse, with the Moon obscuring up to 88% of the Sun's surface between 3:15 p.m. and 3:30 p.m. This rare celestial event will darken the sky, creating an enchanting atmosphere reminiscent of dawn or dusk.
As a total solar eclipse from the same location occurs only once every 400 years on average, the 2024 event offers a unique opportunity for Islip residents to experience this awe-inspiring cosmic wonder. To safely observe the eclipse, it is imperative that residents use certified eclipse glasses. Looking directly at the Sun without proper protection can cause permanent and irreversible damage to eyes in just seconds.
Do
- Use certified eclipse glasses or filters that meet the ISO 12312-2 international safety standard. Click here.
- Instruct children on proper viewing to ensure safety.
- Visit ILOVENY for eclipse resources, events, and additional information.
Don't
- DO NOT look directly at the Sun without proper protection.
- DO NOT use any optical device without solar filters including: your camera phone, telescopes, binoculars, or cameras.
- DO NOT remove safety glasses. Long Island is not within the path of the totality, meaning there will be no point in which the sun is not harmful to look at.
Where Can I Find Certified Glasses?
- Many local libraries throughout the Town of Islip have certified eclipse viewing glasses available for FREE, including: Bay Shore/Brightwaters, Central Islip, East Islip, Hauppauge, Islip, Sayville, West Islip. Most libraries will require proof of a library card. Please call ahead to check rules and availability. Click here to view Town of Islip library contact information.
- Glasses are also available at the
Long Island Welcome Center:
5100 Long Island Expressway,
Eastbound between Exits 51 & 52
Dix Hills, NY 11746
Hours of Operation: Daily: 7 am – 9 pm - Learn more about Safe Solar Viewers and Filters: Click here.
Additional Resources:
- Visit the ILOVENY Eclipse homepage to learn more about: Safety | Maps & Times | Activities | Glasses Locator | FAQs
- NYS Education Department Eclipse Homepage
- NASA Eclipse Explorer
- Cradle of Aviation Museum Eclipse Viewing Party.