Monday’s solar eclipse was a highly anticipated celestial event in Greenwich.
Solar eclipses occur when the Moon passes between the Sun and Earth, casting a shadow on Earth, and partially or totally blocking the path of the sun’s light.
There are actually several types of solar eclipses: Total, partial, hybrid, and annular.
And while Greenwich was not in the path of totality – the path moved from Maine to Texas and Mexico – residents stopped what they were doing and gathered to observe the event. The eclipse started around 2:11 pm and lasted until 4:36 pm.
Outside First County Bank staff experienced the eclipse. April 8, 2024 Photo: Leslie Yager
Shoppers and workers lined up along Greenwich Ave to view the eclipse. April 8, 2024 Photo: Leslie Yager
Shoppers and workers lined up along Greenwich Ave to view the eclipse. April 8, 2024 Photo: Leslie Yager
Office workers spilled out onto sidewalks or gathered on roof decks for a look. Photo: Leslie Yager
Outside Splurge on Lewis Street, employees said they had sold out of the special viewing glasses, and took turns sharing a pair. Photo: Leslie Yager
At Chabad Lubavitch, Maryashie and Rabbi Yossi Deren took a break from work to view the eclipse from Mason Street. Photo: Leslie Yager
Outside WGCH 1490 radio station, Operations Manager Bob Small hadn’t been able to get a hold of protective eyewear. Instead, he set up a cardboard box with a tiny hole at the top to project the glowing crescent shape onto a piece of white paper inside. Photo: Leslie Yager
Outside WGCH 1490 radio station, Operations Manager Bob Small hadn’t been able to get a hold of protective eyewear. Instead, he set up a cardboard box with a tiny hole at the top to project the glowing crescent shape onto a piece of white paper inside. Photo: Leslie Yager
At Julian Curtiss School students gathered on the hill with the Bowman Observatory a fitting backdrop. Photo: Dan Quigley
Liz Eckert and dock master Stanley Hliva at Byram Shore. Contributed photo
The National Weather Service said Connecticut’s eclipse was expected to be visible with approximately 92-94% Sun coverage, while states further north would have a greater impact of the eclipse. The Connecticut Dept of Transportation had warned that there might be traffic delays as a result of motorists traveling to northern Vermont, New Hampshire and Maine to witness totality.
If you missed the eclipse on Monday, you may have to wait until May 11, 2027, when about 85% of the Sun is expected to be covered by the Moon. Another eclipse will be visible in the state on May 1, 2079.