As I’m sure you already know, the first solar eclipse in 38 years visible from the U.S. is coming up on Aug. 21. Finally, for many of us, we’ll get to witness an a truly amazing cosmic event without having the leave the country.
You’ll be able to see the full eclipse from many parts of the U.S., but unfortunately, you’ll only get to enjoy a partial eclipse from Arizona.
If you didn’t make plans to head out to the path of the total solar eclipse, which stretches from Oregon to South Carolina, and really want to see the Total Eclipse, NASA is here to help.
But, if you want to see the partial eclipse, there are many amazing events in Arizona that are fun, and educational. Before we get into those events, let’s talk safety.
Remember, you don’t want to become blind from this. So, be sure to follow proper safety protocol. Many libraries across the U.S. have you covered on the safety front, as they are handing out safety-certified glasses, so you can view the eclipse just fine. Check here to find participating libraries in Arizona.
The eclipse will start in Arizona at about 9:15 a.m., depending on where you’ll be, but here’s a map by NASA that will help you determine when you should head outside to view the eclipse, based on location. Just click on parts of the map, and it will give you the proper times to view the eclipse.
Here are some fun ways to view the eclipse in the Valley:
Everyone’s favorite place, the Arizona Science Center is hosting a solar eclipse viewing party. This event is kid friendly, and the first 500 guests will be able to get their hands on solar viewing glasses. There will be tons of hands-on events for the kiddos, along with food. The planetarium will host shows that revolve around our sun and the solar system. And what better way to get the kids interested in STEM then on the day of a rare, celestial occurrence?
Celebrate the Solar Eclipse at ASU
Head to Hayden Lawn on ASU’s Tempe campus where the School of Earth and Space Exploration is hosting a cool viewing party for the solar eclipse. There will be interactive displays, free glasses and plenty of professors on hand to explain what’s going on. There will be interactive displays for folks to explore within one of the buildings on campus as well. ASU states its event will be, “fun, free, safe – no burning corneas here – solar eclipse viewing experience.”
Both of MCC’s campuses will be hosting eclipse viewing parties. On campus, you will find DIY solar viewing activities (do you see a trend, here? Do not look directly at this solar eclipse. It will hurt, a lot). There will be informational activities along with demonstration throughout the event as well.
If you’re going to be stuck at the office place during the solar eclipse like me, and you’re lucky enough to have a big parking garage nearby, then head on up to the roof of that garage to catch the eclipse. I know I’ll be on our parking garage’s roof, and plan to park my car up there strategically so I can see the eclipse from within an air-conditioned vehicle. I just hope the combination of the window tint and my safety glasses don’t interfere with one another.
Many local education groups are hosting solar eclipse viewing activities, and are providing free safety glasses, or eclipse viewing tools at them. The Lowell Observatory is also hosting a trip to Oregon to view the eclipse in its entirety. Tickets are only $20 too, and free for members.
But remember, be safe during the eclipse. It won’t be fun with burnt corneas.
