HOULTON, Maine — The total solar eclipse that will pass over Maine is just one month away. The path of totality will cross over the state from Jackman to Houlton on April 8, and communities in the pathway are planning for the exciting event.
Did you know that a total solar eclipse is one of four types of solar eclipses? Here's a breakdown of the four types.
Total solar eclipse
A total solar eclipse occurs when the moon completely blocks the face of the sun by passing between it and earth.
People in the middle of the moon's shadow will experience a total eclipse, also called the path of totality. During that time, the sky will darken as if it were dusk or dawn. They'll see what is called the sun's corona, or outer atmosphere, which is usually blocked by the sun's bright face.
Annular solar eclipse
Next up is the annular solar eclipse, something many people out west saw back in October. The annular eclipse happens when the moon passes between the sun and Earth, except this time it's at its furthest point from Earth. That means it doesn't completely cover the sun but creates a dark disk surrounded by what looks like a ring.
You need to keep your eclipse glasses on to enjoy this type of eclipse.
Partial solar eclipse
Then there's a partial solar eclipse, which happens during a solar and annular eclipse when you are outside the area covered by the moon. You'll see part of the sun covered, giving it a crescent shape.
Hybrid solar eclipse
And finally, there's a hybrid solar eclipse. Because the earth is curved there are times an eclipse can switch between an annular and total solar eclipse as it moves across. The next one of these will be in 2031.
NEWS CENTER Maine team will be live in Houlton as the path of totality crosses over, but we'll have lots of coverage in the days and weeks leading up to the event, too!