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Experts: Total Solar Eclipse | April 8, 2024

Published: 18 March 2024

On April 8, 2024, a spectacular and rare celestial event is set to unfold over Canada, the United States and Mexico – a total solar eclipse. As the Moon aligns perfectly between Earth and the Sun, temporary darkness will sweep across parts of the country, captivating countless spectators. Quebec hasn't witnessed a total solar eclipse in over 50 years, and it will be over 80 years before the next one. ()

To celebrate this once-in-a-lifetime celestial event, the Trottier Space Institute and 91˿Ƶ’s Department of Physics will host an Special observation events will also be held at the Macdonald Campus Ի

Here are some experts from 91˿Ƶ who can provide comment on this topic:

Nicolas Cowan, Associate Professor, Departments of Physics and Earth & Planetary Sciences

“Seeing a total solar eclipse with your own eyes is a once-in-a-lifetime experience; don’t miss it! In addition to being deeply beautiful, these rare astronomical treats have also provided important scientific insights, including the nature of space- time and the climates of exoplanets.”

Nicolas Cowan is an Associate Professor in the Departments of Physics and Earth & Planetary Sciences, and the Canada Research Chair in Planetary Climate. He studies the atmospheres and surfaces of exoplanets using telescopes on mountaintops and in space.

nicolas.cowan [at] mcgill.ca (English, French)

, Associate Professor, Department of Physics

“The solar eclipse on April 8, when the Moon blocks the light of the Sun, is a once-in-a-lifetime chance to witness (with protective glasses!) an astronomical event in real-time. The fact that we can predict such an event ahead of time with incredible accuracy is a reminder of how far we have come in our understanding of the universe. It is also a chance to experience a unique moment of natural wonder with a community of enthusiastic observers in Montreal.”

Tracy Webb is an Associate Professor in the Department of Physics and the Trottier Space Institute. She specializes in multi-wavelength observational studies of galaxy formation and evolution. 

tracy.webb [at] mcgill.ca (English)

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