NASA has issued a press release informing the U.S. public of no fewer than 14 events—and you’re invited.
“This year’s total solar eclipse will be at least partially visible to all in the contiguous United States, making it the most accessible eclipse this nation has experienced in this generation,” said Nicola Fox, associate administrator of the Science Mission Directorate at NASA Headquarters in Washington, in a press release.
Darkness In The Day
From the northwest of Mexico to Newfoundland in Canada, the moon’s 115-mile wide central shadow will cover more than 3,200 miles, surging across parts of 15 U.S. states. From within it, observers will experience totality—darkness in the day for a few minutes as the moon completely blocks the sun, revealing the sun’s faint corona.
Outside of this path, people in all 48 contiguous U.S. states will see a partial eclipse when the moon covers only part of the sun.
Moment Of Inspiration And Awe
“There is space for everyone to join NASA in experiencing this beautiful amalgamation of our Earth, sun and moon in an alignment that will not only lead to new scientific discoveries but an incredible shared moment of inspiration and awe,” said Fox.
The space agency revealed collaborations with organizations, local governments, universities and science centers to host in-person events and engage the public in the excitement of the solar eclipse.
Kerrville, Texas: Kerrville Eclipse Festival at Louise Hays Park
Space in the event cannot be reserved, and you will not need a ticket to enter. Limited off-site parking will be available to reserve ahead of the eclipse. Details are available online.
Stonewall, Texas: Eclipse viewing at LBJ National Historical Park
The event is free and open to the public. No registration is required, but attendance is limited to the first 1,000 cars on April 8. More information is available online.
Austin, Texas: Eclipse viewing at the Austin Central Library
10:00 a.m. – 2:30 p.m. on April 8, with free public talks, children’s activities, and a solar telescope.
Waco, Texas: Eclipse Over Texas: Live From Waco
Observing events from Lowell Observatory, Baylor University and the Discovery Channel at McLane Stadium for up to 30,000 people.
More information
Dallas: Eclipse viewing at the Dallas Arboretum
Admission tickets are sold out. More information is available online.
Sun, Moon and You at the Dallas Cotton Bowl
Free tickets are required. Check back online for more details.
Russellville, Ark.: Eclipse events in multiple locations
Many events are free with no registration required; some events require tickets with details available online.
Carbondale, Ill.: Southern Illinois Crossroads Eclipse Festival
Tickets are required; information is available online.
Indianapolis: Eclipse viewing at Indianapolis Motor Speedway
Tickets are required for guests over 18; information is available online.
Cleveland: Total Eclipse Fest at the Great Lakes Science Center
The event is free and open to the public with no registration required; information is available online.
Erie, Pa.: Eclipse viewing at Mercyhurst University
The event is free and open to the public with no registration required; information is available online.
Niagara Falls, N.Y: Eclipse events in multiple locations
Many events are free and open to the public, and registration may be required based on space constraints. Information is available online.
Houlton, Maine: Eclipse events in multiple locations
Eclipse viewing in downtown Houlton on April 8 is free and open to the public.
Washington: Solar Eclipse Festival on the National Mall
The event is free and open to the public with no registration required; information is available online.
For the latest on all aspects of April 8’s total solar eclipse in North America, check my main feed for new articles each day.
Wishing you clear skies and wide eyes.
