On Monday, August 21, 2017, much of the United States will be able to view a total solar eclipse. According to the Farmer’s Almanac, this has not happened since 1979. Space.com estimates the next total eclipse visible from the U.S. will not be until 2024. So the location-specific experience is fairly rare. While the U.S. Virgin Islands will not be able to see this year’s total eclipse, we will be able to see a partial for a few hours.
According to TimeAndDate.com, in Christiansted the partial eclipse will be viewable for a total duration of 2 hours and 32 minutes. It will begin Monday, August 21 at 2:15 p.m. and end at 4:48 p.m. The maximum eclipse viewable from St. Croix will peak at 3:37 p.m. Set your watch or phone!
Here’s a video simulating what we can expect the partial eclipse to look like from the U.S. Virgin Islands.
If you plan to watch the eclipse, you will need a pair of solar viewing glasses to do so safely, according to the National Aeronautics and Space Administration (NASA). St. Croix-based Optometrist Dr. Ria Lutchmeesingh, recommends confirming said glasses are certified by the International Standards Organization (ISO).
States from which the total solar eclipse will be visible according to Wikipedia:
- Georgia
- Idaho
- Illinois
- Kansas
- Kentucky
- Missouri
- Nebraska
- North Carolina
- Oregon
- South Carolina
- Tennessee
- Wyoming
Ready to watch nature’s spectacles without pollution in the sky? Join us in America’s Caribbean. When you’re ready to make the U.S. Virgin Islands your home part- or full-time, count on the real estate expertise of Chris and Kerri Hanley. With more than 50 years of combined market-specific experience, they can help you find the ideal home, condo or land. Contact them today about what you’re looking for and download a free St. Croix Event Guide to find a perfect time for an extended stay: