AUGUSTA — With Maine set to experience its first total eclipse of the sun in decades, Gov. Janet Mills and the Maine Office of Tourism are urging residents and visitors to plan ahead to make sure their glimpse of the once-in-a-generation event is safe and successful.

On Monday, April 8, the moon is set to pass between Earth and the Sun, completely blocking the face of the sun from Earth. In nearly half of Maine, the total eclipse will be visible for up to three-and-a-half minutes — one of the longest totality observation times in North America.

“Maine is the best spot in New England and one of the best places in North America to catch a glimpse of celestial history this April. Our state is ready to welcome stargazers from across the world to witness this once-in-a-generation event,” said Gov. Janet Mills. “I encourage Maine people and visitors to our state to make an observation plan and order eclipse glasses now so that they are ready to safely witness this extraordinary event.”

Maine, one of 13 states where the eclipse will be visible, offers more opportunities to view the eclipse than any other state in the region. Parts of northern and western Maine are expected to be in the path of totality for the eclipse, although more than 90% of the event will be visible in all parts of the state.

To ensure that observers have a successful eclipse viewing experience, the Maine Office of Tourism has issued these essential guidelines:

— Wear eclipse glasses while viewing to protect eyes from harmful solar radiation.
— Stay on paved roads to ensure safe travel to and from viewing locations.
— Be prepared for increased traffic and the possibility of backups on rural roads.
— Have an emergency kit in the vehicle.
— Do not rely on GPS in rural areas.
— If weather conditions allow for safe hiking, remain on clearly marked trails to avoid getting lost or injured.
— Obtain permission before accessing privately owned land for optimal viewing locations.
— Monitor the forecast and dress appropriately for the weather, as conditions may be winter-like.
— Research one’s destination and secure lodging reservations well in advance to avoid last-minute inconveniences.

Many towns in the path of totality are preparing events to coincide with the eclipse. Rangeley is celebrating the Shadow of the Sun Festival from April 5-8, with activities including Sound Bathing Under the Stars and Night Sky Trivia.

Visitors to Aroostook County can also experience another celestial journey — the Maine Solar System Model — which is the largest 3-D scale model of the solar system in the western hemisphere, and it extends for nearly 100 miles along U.S. Route 1, from the Sun at University Maine at Presque Isle to the dwarf planet Eris in Topsfield.

Houlton will feature live music, the Blackfly Brewfest, solar system bus tours and more. A weather balloon will livestream the event to movie theaters in case of clouds.

In the Carrabassett Valley, eclipse fans can take part in the Sugarloaf Skiclipse.

An eclipse-themed road race in Millinocket was named by the New York Times in its 52 Places to Go recommended worldwide travel destinations for 2024.

Visitors traveling to communities in the path of totality can find MOT-recommended stops along the way at visitmaine.com.

 

Check out other upcoming area events!

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