Solar Eclipse Visible in Colombia on April 8

A solar eclipse visible in Colombia and the Americas occured today, Monday, April 8. While North America and parts of Mexico experienced a total eclipse, the astronomical phenomenon was partial in Colombia. Still, astronomy enthusiasts and curious individuals witnessed the unusual event, which started at 12:39 p.m.

A total solar eclipse occurs when the Moon passes between the Earth and the Sun, entirely blocking the face of the latter and resulting in a short period of darkness.

While solar eclipses are quite rare, Colombia recently experienced the phenomenon on October 14, 2023. Before that, the last total solar eclipse visible in the country occurred on February 26, 1998.

Eclipse in Colombia

The April 8^th solar eclipse was not total in Colombia. However, the phenomenon was partially visible in the country, beginning at 12:39 p.m. and ending at 2:35 p.m.

In the coastal cities of Barranquilla, Cartagena and Santa Marta, the solar eclipse reached 40% visibility. In the indland cities of Cali, Medellin and Bogota, the phenomenon was more pronounced, with visibility almost reaching 50%.

Good practice in case of solar eclipse

It is important to remember that it is unsafe to directly stare at the sun without specialized protection. To safely observe a partial eclipse, one should use eclipse glasses. Unlike regular sunglasses, eclipse glasses are specifically designed for safely viewing the sun.

Additionally, it is important to remember that one should not stare at the sun through a telescope or camera lens without proper solar filters, as this could cause severe eye damage. 

For those not living in the Americas but eager to wonder at the entire phenomenon, NASA offered a livestream directly on its YouTube channel.