Have you heard the rumor? It’s not just one! On April 8, an extraordinary astronomical phenomenon will take place: a total solar eclipse! And at Mont SUTTON, you’ll be able to enjoy it on skis or with a chairlift ride, exceptionally offered for the occasion.
A privileged position in the Eastern Townships
The Eastern Townships, and more specifically Sutton, will be at the heart of the eclipse’s trajectory, meaning that Mont SUTTON will be in the zone of total darkness, offering the opportunity to observe the eclipse directly on site!
Since Mont SUTTON has the privilege of being in this zone of totality, a unique and immersive experience in the heart of nature will be possible. The environment will be perfect for observing the eclipse. Even if it’s a cloudy day, the eclipse promises to be impressive.
The eclipse is scheduled to begin at 2:15 p.m and end at 4:37 p.m. This means that luminosity will gradually diminish from 2:30 p.m. onwards, reaching “total eclipse” – i.e. complete darkness – by 3:27 p.m. This night in full daylight will fascinate for 3 minutes and 30 seconds. Luminosity will then gradually return.
To understand just how lucky we are, we need to bear in mind that most locations will only experience this absolute night for about 1 minute, and only a handful of municipalities will be in the path of the eclipse. The “My Eclipse” application from the Fédération des astronomes amateurs du Québec (FAAQ) can be used to simulate this exceptional event.
More specifically at Mont SUTTON, on this special day, it will be possible to ski from 9 a.m. and/or enjoy a chairlift ride from 1:30 p.m. to the top of chairlift II, on the terrace of the Chalet altitude 680 m (limited places on the terrace).
Ski tickets are already on sale online, and season passes valid for Mondays will also be honored. Skiers will need to check the conditions page, as usual, to find out which slopes will be open. To purchase a Spring Web Ticket, visit montsutton.com/en/promotions.
Tickets for chairlift rides (chairlift II only), costing $23 + tax and including the glasses required for eclipse viewing, will be on sale shortly at montsutton.com/en/eclipse.
Special solar eclipse glasses, complying with the international ISO 12312-2 standard, will be included with ski and ride tickets. Additional glasses will be available in limited quantities at the customer service at a cost of $5 + tax. These goggles are essential for enjoying the show without damaging your eyes.
More over, an amateur astronomer from the FAAQ will be at the mountain from 12 p.m. to 5 p.m. to answer any questions you may have. A first workshop, at 12 p.m. on the terrace of Chalet Alt. 400 m, will enable curious visitors to make their own observation box for the moment of the eclipse! You’ll need to bring your own box! An animation station will then be set up at Chalet Alt. 680 m., including a telescope and solar clock. At Bar Le Tucker, from 2 p.m. to 4 p.m., there will be a screening of the Astrolab program.
A special schedule for everyone’s safety
For safety reasons and to allow everyone, including employees, to enjoy the moment to the fullest, chairlifts and slopes will close approximately between 2:45 and 3:45 pm (to be confirmed, depending on daylight conditions). Chairlift II will reopen around 3:45 p.m., at reduced speed, to allow pedestrians to make their way back down. Skiers can also use the chairlift if they wish!
Please note that no pedestrians will be allowed on the slopes at any time during the day, before, during or after the eclipse!
For those who want to extend the pleasure, Mont SUTTON welcomes RVs in some of its parking lots to spend the night, for a minimal fee. All the information and best entertainment options at great prices can be found at montsutton.com.
It’s the phenomenon of the century! An event to be experienced together with friends and family! You’ll have to be there, as the next total solar eclipse is scheduled for 150 years from now!
Other articles from mtltimes.ca – totimes.ca – otttimes.ca
Mtl Duct Cleaning and dryer vent cleaning answering all your questions
