If you are planning to be in Oregon the 2nd weekend in October, you may get to experience a sight to behold – an annular solar eclipse.
Sky-watchers in parts of Oregon will be among the first in the U.S to see the big show before it continues towards Texas and Central America. Those inside the path of the eclipse will see the sun appear as a bright ring-shaped halo around the edges of the moon for a full 4 minutes before it moves southeast.
What Causes the Dramatic Ring of Fire?
An annular solar eclipse occurs only when the moon is at its furthest point from the Earth and passes between our planet and the sun. Because the moon is too far away to block out the sun completely, it creates a brilliant “ring of fire” around it.
Where and When to Watch
The 2023 annular solar eclipse will be visible along a narrow path crossing from Oregon to Texas. The eclipse will make landfall along parts of the Central and Southern Oregon Coast (including Coos Bay and North Bend shortly after 8 a.m., before reaching “annularity” at 9:18 a.m. on October 14, 2023.
This interactive map from the Oregon Museum of Science and Industry (OMSI) will help pinpoint locations to view the eclipse.
How to View the Eclipse Safely
The only safe way to view a solar eclipse is with special eclipse glasses or a solar filter. Never look directly at the sun, even during a partial eclipse, without protection. The sun’s rays can cause serious eye damage, including blindness.
Eclipse glasses are specially designed to filter out the sun’s harmful rays. They are available at most astronomy stores and some retail stores. You can also purchase them online.
Solar binoculars are another option for viewing a solar eclipse. They are equipped with special filters that protect your eyes. However, solar binoculars are more expensive than eclipse glasses.
If you are planning to view the solar eclipse, be sure to get your eclipse glasses or solar binoculars well in advance. Supplies tend to sell out quickly.
Local tip: Get your eclipse glasses at the Coos Bay Visitor Center or stop by a Travel Oregon Welcome Center between Oct. 1 and Oct. 14 to pick up a free pair (while supplies last). Eclipse glasses are available for purchase at the OMSI Science Store.
What if I Can’t View the Eclipse in Person?
OMSI will be broadcasting the annular eclipse live online. Check out their broadcast schedule to join in the global experience wherever you are.
We have an amazing collection of homes in Central Oregon and the Oregon Coast that will put you in the path of this natural phenomenon. Grab your eclipse glasses and we will see you there!