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An Idaho guide to viewing this summer's solar eclipse

Posted at 10:19 PM, May 17, 2017
and last updated 2017-05-18 17:51:41-04

The upcoming total solar eclipse is creating a huge frenzy nationwide.

It's been almost one hundred years since a total solar eclipse crossed the country and experts say it will likely be the most observed solar eclipse in the history of humanity.

On Monday morning, August 21, the 60 mile wide shadow of the moon will cut right through Idaho as it sweeps from coast to coast.

Traveling at just under 2000 miles per hour the main event will be over soon after it begins.

From the beginning to the end a typical eclipse might last two to three hours but the the total phase may only lasts a few minutes

This eclipse will last only about two minutes or less. Despite the short duration, if you plan on making you way to the path of totality expect company.

Estimates for the number of people experiencing this rare event are staggering. The Idaho Department of Tourism estimates up to one million viewers in idaho alone.

The Weiser, Payette, Ontario and Fruitland areas could see up to 300,000 people. Cascade may get 250,000 people, Stanley up to 40,000 people.

With so many people flooding into Idaho, it’s recommended you get to your viewing location the day prior.

In Boise, like much of the Treasure Valley around 99 percent of the sun will be covered, but that one percent of  sunlight is ten thousand times brighter than totality.

That means you will have to be in the path of totality to catch this amazing spectacle.

Remember you should never look directly at the sun or you will damage your eyes unless you are wearing “Solar Eclipse Glasses" They allow you to watch the disk of the moon move across the sun. The only time you can look directly at the sun without these special glasses is when the eclipse becomes total.  When the moment finally arrives, despite months of waiting many will be caught off guard at this eerie and often emotionally overwhelming experience.