A partial solar eclipse will be seen in the Maritimes, Ontario, Quebec, and various other regions of Canada today as the annual Perseid meteor shower peaks this week.
The Canadian Space Agency mentions that the partial eclipse will be observable nationwide, but its timing and visibility will vary by location.
In Ottawa, around 15 percent of the sun will be obscured. The event is set to start at 1:42 p. m. and conclude at 2:33 p. m.
The agency explains that partial eclipses occur when the moon moves between Earth and the sun, covering part of our star. It’s essential to use special glasses for viewing to avoid eye damage.
To add to this celestial spectacle, Wednesday morning starts with six neighboring planets aligning in an arc before dawn and wraps up with the Perseid meteor shower reaching its peak after sunset under a new moon, as reported by the Associated Press. Bright meteors may streak across the sky alongside some visible planets and stars.
Skywatchers can enjoy the Perseid meteor shower through Friday with up to 100 shooting stars per hour, compared to just five on an average night.
However, those in Ottawa may find it challenging to see due to potential cloud cover; there’s a 60 percent chance of showers and thunderstorms.
This report by was first Aug. 12, 2026.
People watch the total solar eclipse in Niagara Falls, Ont., on Monday, April 8, 2024. THE CANADIAN PRESS/Aaron Lynett Keep it Factual
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