A Once in A Lifetime Event

On May 10, 1994, our region enjoyed being in the direct path of an Annular Solar Eclipse. An Annular Solar
Eclipse occurs when the Moon passes between the Sun and Earth while it is at its farthest point from Earth.
Because the Moon is farther away from Earth, it appears smaller than the Sun and does not completely cover
the star. When annularity is reached, the Moon’s entire disk is seen silhouetted against the Sun, leaving a “ring
of fire.” Because the Sun is never completely covered, observers must wear proper eye protection at all times
while watching an Annular Solar Eclipse.

A Total Solar Eclipse occurs when the Moon passes between the Sun and Earth, completely blocking the
face of the Sun. The sky will darken as if it were dawn or dusk. Except during the brief total phase of a Total
Solar Eclipse, when the Moon completely blocks the Sun’s bright face, it is not safe to look directly at the Sun
without specialized eye protection for solar viewing. On April 8, the eclipse will begin shortly after two o’clock in
the afternoon and reach totality at 3:16pm. The duration of totality will be about three minutes and forty seconds
and the eclipse itself will end around 4:30pm.

According to NASA, the next Total Solar Eclipse to make its way through our area will be October 26, 2144,
making this year’s event truly a once in a lifetime experience. Therefore, the Fairview Township Municipal
Building will only be open between the hours of 7:30-11:30am. Additionally, the Millfair Compost &
Recycling Center will be closed the entire day.