A total eclipse of the sun has sky watchers travelling to Oregon to see the full effect -- but we in Victoria will be treated to a 90% eclipse.
Chris Gainor of the National Royal Astronomical Society of Canada says the spectacular event will start at 9:08 am Monday, and by 10:20 am the moon will obscure about 90% of the sun's surface.
Gainor says the rule that you should never look at the sun applies to the eclipse:
"It'll be pretty close to 90% during those few minutes around 10:20, and the moon just keeps moving along. Now here in Victoria, because you're seeing part of the sun all the time you need some protection. You have to wear the special glasses."
Many stores in Victoria report they are sold out of the specially-rated glasses. And, no, sunglasses don't count.
It's the first time since 1979 North America will experience a total eclipse of the sun. And the next one is in April 2024.
NASA has posted guidelines on other ways to view the eclipse safely.