Tag: total solar eclipse

Today in History: August 21, total solar eclipse captivates America
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Today is Thursday, Aug. 21, the 233rd day of 2025. There are 132 days left in the year.

Today in history:

On Aug. 21, 2017, Americans witnessed their first full-blown coast-to-coast solar eclipse since World War I, with eclipse-watchers gathering along a path of totality extending 2,600 miles across the continent.

Also on this date:

In 1831, Nat Turner launched a violent slave rebellion in Virginia, resulting in the deaths of at least 55 white people; scores of Black people were killed in retribution in the aftermath of the rebellion, and Turner was later executed.
In 1858, the first of seven debates took place between Illinois senatorial contenders Abraham Lincoln and Stephen Douglas.

In 1911, Leonardo da Vinci’s “Mona Lisa” was stolen from the Louvre Museum in Paris. (It was recovered two years later in Italy.)

In 1944, the United States, Britain, the Soviet Union and China opened talks at Dumbarton Oaks in Washington that helped pave the way for establishment of the United Nations.

In 1959, President Dwight D. Eisenhower signed a proclamation officially declaring Hawaii the 50th state.

In 1983, Filipino politician Benigno Aquino Jr. was assassinated as he exited an aircraft at Manila International Airport. (His widow, Corazon Aquino, would become president of the Philippines three years later.)

In 1991, a hardline coup against Soviet President Mikhail S. Gorbachev collapsed in the face of a popular uprising led by Russian Federation President Boris N. Yeltsin.

In 1992, an 11-day siege began at the cabin of white separatist Randy Weaver in Ruby Ridge, Idaho, as government agents tried to arrest Weaver for failing to appear in court on charges of selling two illegal sawed-off shotguns; on the first day of the siege, Weaver’s teenage son, Samuel, and Deputy U.S. Marshal William Degan were killed.

In 1993, in a serious setback for NASA, engineers lost contact with the Mars Observer spacecraft as it was about to reach the red planet on a $980 million mission.

In 2000, rescue efforts to reach the sunken Russian nuclear submarine Kursk ended with divers announcing none of the 118 sailors had survived.

In 2010, Iranian and Russian engineers began loading fuel into Iran’s first nuclear power plant, which Moscow promised to safeguard to prevent material at the site from being used in any potential weapons production.

In 2015, a trio of Americans, U.S. Air Force Staff Sgt. Spencer Stone, National Guardsman Alek Skarlatos and college student Anthony Sadler, and a British businessman, Chris Norman, tackled and disarmed a Moroccan gunman on a high-speed train between Amsterdam and Paris.

In 2018, Michael Cohen, President Donald Trump’s former personal lawyer and fixer, pleaded guilty to campaign-finance violations and other charges; Cohen said Trump directed him to arrange the payment of hush money to porn star Stormy Daniels and former Playboy model Karen McDougal to fend off damage to his White House bid. (Trump was found guilty of 34 felony counts of falsifying business records related to the payments in May 2024.)

In 2020, a former police officer who became known as the Golden State Killer, Joseph James DeAngelo, told victims and family members in a Sacramento courtroom that he was “truly sorry” before he was sentenced to multiple life prison sentences for a decade-long string of rapes and murders.

Today’s Birthdays:

Rock and Roll Hall of Famer James Burton is 86.

Singer Jackie DeShannon is 84.

Film director Peter Weir is 81.

Football Hall of Famer Willie Lanier is 80.

Actor Loretta Devine is 76.

Two-time Heisman Trophy winner Archie Griffin is 71.

Actor Kim Cattrall is 69.

Former NFL quarterback Jim McMahon is 66.

Rock musician Serj Tankian (System of a Down) is 58.

Actor Carrie-Anne Moss is 58.

Google co-founder Sergei Brin is 52.

Singer Kelis (kuh-LEES’) is 46.

TV personality Brody Jenner is 42.

Olympic gold medal sprinter Usain (yoo-SAYN’) Bolt is 39.

Country singer Kacey Musgraves is 37.

Soccer player Robert Lewandowski is 37.

Actor Hayden Panettiere (pan’-uh-tee-EHR’) is 36.

Comedian-singer-filmmaker Bo Burnham is 35.
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Associated Press

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August 21, 2025
Today in History: August 21, total solar eclipse captivates America
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Today is Thursday, Aug. 21, the 233rd day of 2025. There are 132 days left in the year.

Today in history:

On Aug. 21, 2017, Americans witnessed their first full-blown coast-to-coast solar eclipse since World War I, with eclipse-watchers gathering along a path of totality extending 2,600 miles across the continent.

Also on this date:

In 1831, Nat Turner launched a violent slave rebellion in Virginia, resulting in the deaths of at least 55 white people; scores of Black people were killed in retribution in the aftermath of the rebellion, and Turner was later executed.
In 1858, the first of seven debates took place between Illinois senatorial contenders Abraham Lincoln and Stephen Douglas.

In 1911, Leonardo da Vinci’s “Mona Lisa” was stolen from the Louvre Museum in Paris. (It was recovered two years later in Italy.)

In 1944, the United States, Britain, the Soviet Union and China opened talks at Dumbarton Oaks in Washington that helped pave the way for establishment of the United Nations.

In 1959, President Dwight D. Eisenhower signed a proclamation officially declaring Hawaii the 50th state.

In 1983, Filipino politician Benigno Aquino Jr. was assassinated as he exited an aircraft at Manila International Airport. (His widow, Corazon Aquino, would become president of the Philippines three years later.)

In 1991, a hardline coup against Soviet President Mikhail S. Gorbachev collapsed in the face of a popular uprising led by Russian Federation President Boris N. Yeltsin.

In 1992, an 11-day siege began at the cabin of white separatist Randy Weaver in Ruby Ridge, Idaho, as government agents tried to arrest Weaver for failing to appear in court on charges of selling two illegal sawed-off shotguns; on the first day of the siege, Weaver’s teenage son, Samuel, and Deputy U.S. Marshal William Degan were killed.

In 1993, in a serious setback for NASA, engineers lost contact with the Mars Observer spacecraft as it was about to reach the red planet on a $980 million mission.

In 2000, rescue efforts to reach the sunken Russian nuclear submarine Kursk ended with divers announcing none of the 118 sailors had survived.

In 2010, Iranian and Russian engineers began loading fuel into Iran’s first nuclear power plant, which Moscow promised to safeguard to prevent material at the site from being used in any potential weapons production.

In 2015, a trio of Americans, U.S. Air Force Staff Sgt. Spencer Stone, National Guardsman Alek Skarlatos and college student Anthony Sadler, and a British businessman, Chris Norman, tackled and disarmed a Moroccan gunman on a high-speed train between Amsterdam and Paris.

In 2018, Michael Cohen, President Donald Trump’s former personal lawyer and fixer, pleaded guilty to campaign-finance violations and other charges; Cohen said Trump directed him to arrange the payment of hush money to porn star Stormy Daniels and former Playboy model Karen McDougal to fend off damage to his White House bid. (Trump was found guilty of 34 felony counts of falsifying business records related to the payments in May 2024.)

In 2020, a former police officer who became known as the Golden State Killer, Joseph James DeAngelo, told victims and family members in a Sacramento courtroom that he was “truly sorry” before he was sentenced to multiple life prison sentences for a decade-long string of rapes and murders.

Today’s Birthdays:

Rock and Roll Hall of Famer James Burton is 86.

Singer Jackie DeShannon is 84.

Film director Peter Weir is 81.

Football Hall of Famer Willie Lanier is 80.

Actor Loretta Devine is 76.

Two-time Heisman Trophy winner Archie Griffin is 71.

Actor Kim Cattrall is 69.

Former NFL quarterback Jim McMahon is 66.

Rock musician Serj Tankian (System of a Down) is 58.

Actor Carrie-Anne Moss is 58.

Google co-founder Sergei Brin is 52.

Singer Kelis (kuh-LEES’) is 46.

TV personality Brody Jenner is 42.

Olympic gold medal sprinter Usain (yoo-SAYN’) Bolt is 39.

Country singer Kacey Musgraves is 37.

Soccer player Robert Lewandowski is 37.

Actor Hayden Panettiere (pan’-uh-tee-EHR’) is 36.

Comedian-singer-filmmaker Bo Burnham is 35.
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The Associated Press

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August 21, 2025
April’s Solar Eclipse Brought in Roughly $25M Across the Region, Destination Cleveland Says

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click to enlarge

Mark Oprea

Viewers of the April 8 Total Solar Eclipse at Voinovich Park. That six-minute celestial event led to nearly $25 million being spent across the region, Destination Cleveland said.

Those six minutes in spring, wherein the moon engulfed the sun, lured hundreds of thousands of sky-watchers to grassy fields and urban rooftops across the region.

And all those visitors seeking meaning and joy in those fleeting, dim minutes brought in quite a load of cash—$25 million, to be exact.

A dozen celestial events, from NASA’s Total Eclipse Fest on the lake, to Lorain’s own Solar Eclipse Viewing Party, brought in tens of millions in spending on hotels, food, transportation and shopping, Destination Cleveland announced on Wednesday.

Hotel stays, which were a hot commodity in Downtown Cleveland, made up a huge chunk of that money. (And Airbnbs, with some running for as much as $2,000 to $3,000 a night.) Every county in the region saw occupancy rates spike 80 percent on average on April 7 and 8, compared to the same dates in 2023.

But as was the case after the 2016 Republican National Convention and the World Series that followed, such figures speak to greater implications than just money spent. Region-wide spectacles, worthy of years-long planning, help convey needed PR for Cleveland as the city continues to sell itself nationally as a viable place to move—to escape unreachable home prices or ongoing climate concerns.

“Being in path of totality put Cleveland in the national spotlight,” Destination Cleveland CEO David Gilbert wrote in a release.

That, and the NCAA Final Four Championship that ran concurrently with the eclipse festivities, Gilbert added, “has a direct and lasting impact on how people perceive Cleveland.”

But will those six minutes of celestial magic nudge out-of-towners to buy into Cleveland’s somewhat promising future?

A lot has been written about Cleveland’s promise as a climate haven city, or how its apparent leadership in the office conversion uptick will lead to population spikes. But pinning down moves tied to specific high-profile events is a lot harder, even impossible to ascertain.

Just as it is to pin that $25 million solely on the actions of tourists.

“I’ve got to state this honestly: 95 percent of our attendance was Clevelanders,” said Mike Miller, the owner of the Music Box Supper Club, which hosted its own rooftop eclipse party.

Though Miller sold tickets ($125 a pop) to 300 rooftop partygoers, just a small fraction of those, he said, went to people living outside Cuyahoga County. The upshot is that Music Box’s unique vantage point of a once-in-a-lifetime event sells, in Miller’s mind, the notion of partying on the river to those that don’t do it on the regular.

That multiplier effect could increase as Downtown Cleveland attracts more private development, á la Bedrock’s $2 billion neighborhood south of Tower City, or Mayor Bibb’s pursuit of the North Coast Lakefront Plan.

“I mean, we see it all the time: One concert for us always leads to 10 concerts,” Miller said. “And do those people move here? Yes, I think some of them do.”

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Mark Oprea

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September 4, 2024
Eyes hurt after the solar eclipse? Here’s what to know

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(FOX40.COM) — Days after a solar eclipse was viewed by millions of people throughout the United States, some people fear there may be some damage done to their eyes.
• Video Above: Opthalmologist describes how to properly view the solar eclipse

“We kind of get a little nervous in the office when something like this happens,” Dr. Paymaun Asnaashari of Arden Park Optometry in Sacramento told FOX40.com. “The solar eclipse was a once in a lifetime opportunity for some, but as amazing as it is, it can still have harmful effects.”

Timelapse videos show total solar eclipse plunge U.S. cities into darkness

Experts issued several advisories about how to properly view the eclipse and avoid injury before it happened. After Monday’s celestial event, KTLA reported that the Google search for “eyes hurt” spiked. Although some people may have missed the safety memo, the damage done to a person’s eyes depends on how long a person looked up at the sun, according to Asnaashari.

“Think of it like like a sunburn. When a person is exposed to the sun for too long it can cause a temporary burn. The longer a person’s skin burns, the more damage is done,” Asnaashari said. “But unlike the skin, the eyes don’t have stem cells which help heal. The sun can destroy the eye cells that control vision, which is an irreversible loss.”

Asnaashari said the main condition to be on the lookout for is solar retinopathy which is permanent eye damage from sun.

“If a person experiences noticeable changes in vision that doesn’t improve, I would recommend to see an eye care professional,” Asnaashari said. “Retina damages requires a specific type of imaging to be able to see and diagnose it.”

On the bright side, Asnaashari said that if a person wore the proper protective gear while viewing the solar eclipse, their vision should go back to normal.

He added, “unless they bought something generic or something not up to standard for blocking U.V radiation, they are less likely to have permanent damage.”

Lyrid Meteor Shower on the horizon following Solar Eclipse

Symptoms of solar retinopathy

The most common cause of solar retinopathy happens from looking at the sun, which happens with sun-gazing or viewing a solar eclipse, according to the American Association for Pediatric Ophthalmology and Strabismus. The retina does not have pain receptors, so injury isn’t felt when it happens, but tell-tale signs occur within hours of the developed damage.

•“Blind spot” in one or both eyes (scotoma).
• Abnormal color vision (dyschromatopsia).
• Twisting or warping of the central vision (metamorphopsia)
• Seeing objects smaller than they actually are.
• Headaches

Treatment for solar retinopathy

There isn’t a known treatment for solar retinopathy, according to AAPOS. Many people improve on their own between three and sox months without any treatment. Steroids have also reportedly been tried to improve and reverse symptoms, however, there is no proven effectiveness for solar retinopathy.

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Veronica Catlin

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April 10, 2024
Out-Of-This-World Experience | Show Me Nature Photography
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Today’s post begins what will be a multiple-post series, from the “Great American Total Solar Eclipse of 2024” adventure I experienced on Monday, April 08.

I can honestly say that this was one of the most dramatic … uplifting … emotional … natural events I have ever experienced! I began preparing for this event well over a year ago. Knowing that this eclipse would likely be my last one to experience, I put a lot of time and effort into preparing for it (when the next total solar eclipse happens in the U.S., I will be 94!).

My initial plan was to travel to Texas to photograph this eclipse, followed up with some bluebonnet photography along some of Texas’ Bluebonnet trails. But recent weather issues caused me to change locations … moving to the bootheel area of Missouri at the last minute; my decision to move was made on Friday, April 05.

Not having ever traveled to the bootheel area, I was starting at ground-level, spending many hours on the internet to determine where I should go. After much deliberation, I focused on the Riverfront Park in Van Buren, Missouri, as my preferred location … followed up with 3 other, backup locations nearby.

Getting no sleep the night before eclipse (I was too excited to sleep!), I left my motel in Springfield, Missouri, at 4:00am. I was afraid the expected throngs of people would be elbowing each other for my spot at the park! But when I arrived at the park at 6:00am, there were only 2 RV’s, 1 pickup truck, and 1 car there! I found “My Spot” and settled back for a short nap … I got 15 minutes in, before other arriving spectators woke me.

The conditions were good … just a few, thin clouds around, but mostly sunny. Temperature forecast for a high of 80F. And gently winds. After getting my equipment set up, I spent a lot of time reviewing my game plan … shoot this aspect of the eclipse by ….. Change my shutter speed to xxx, in preparation for yyy. Making notes to stick to my tripods … I was determined I would get some elusive totality shots. And being an Eagle Scout taught me “to be prepared”!

Just over an hour before the eclipse was to begin, I made sure everything was ready and captured a photo of the Riverfront Park where I set up:

About 20 minutes prior to the moon taking it’s “first bite” out of the sun, I captured this image of the sun, with some visible sunspots:

I’m currently reviewing and editing the rest of the images I captured during the eclipse … all 388 of them! It will take me a while to get them edited, but hope to be able to post a few new images, every few days. Stay tuned!

Photographic Equipment Used:
- Canon 5D Mark 3 camera bodies (2 ea.)
- Canon 500mm, f/4 IS lens, equipped with approved solar filter
- Canon 28-135mm, f/3.5-f/5.6 IS lens
- Bogen 3021 tripod and StudioBall ballhead
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James Braswell

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April 10, 2024
PHOTOS: The eclipse “most viewed astronomical event in history”

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The full effect of Monday’s total eclipse could only be experienced in what’s known as the path of totality — a 115-mile-wide band that ran northeast from Mexico’s Pacific coast through cloudy southwest Texas, past the heart of Indiana, over Major League Baseball fans gathered hours early in Cleveland, past Niagara Falls and through Maine into Canada. But only where the weather cooperated.

About 44 million people live within the track, and a couple hundred million more reside within 200 miles.

“This may be the most viewed astronomical event in history,” said National Air and Space Museum curator Teasel Muir-Harmony, standing outside the museum in Washington, awaiting a partial eclipse.

In the Bay Area, total solar eclipses — where day turns to night, stars come out, temperatures drop and birds stop singing — are extremely rare. The last one visible over San Francisco occurred 600 years ago, on June 26, 1424, according to NASA.

And the next one won’t happen until 228 years from now, on Dec. 31, 2252.

The next total solar eclipse that will be visible anywhere in California will occur on Aug. 12, 2045, according to NASA, following a path that includes far Northern California communities like Redding, before it moves across the nation to Florida. -Paul Rogers

Solar prominences are seen during a total solar eclipse in Dallas, Texas on Monday, April 8, 2024. (Keegan Barber/NASA via AP)

Skiers and hikers take in the view from the Appalachian Trail at the summit of Saddleback Mountain during the total solar eclipse, Monday, April 8, 2024, near Rangeley, Maine. (AP Photo/Robert F. Bukaty)

WASHINGTON, DC – APRIL 08: Zion Edwards of Grand Prairie, Texas, looks at the solar eclipse through two pair of mylar filter glasses near the base of the Washington Monument on the National Mall on April 08, 2024 in Washington, DC. People have traveled to areas across North America that are in the “path of totality” in order to experience the eclipse today, with the next total solar eclipse that can be seen from a large part of North America won’t happen until 2044. (Photo by Chip Somodevilla/Getty Images)

TORREON, MEXICO – APRIL 08: Aerial view of people watching the total eclipse at Cristo de las Noas on April 08, 2024 in Torreon, Mexico. Millions of people have flocked to areas across North America that are in the “path of totality” in order to experience a total solar eclipse. During the event, the moon will pass in between the sun and the Earth, appearing to block the sun. (Photo by Saul Perales/Getty Images)

$WASHINGTON, DC - APRIL 08: The solar eclipse is seen above the Washington Monument on April 08, 2024 in Washington, DC. People have traveled to areas across North America that are in the "path of totality" in order to experience the eclipse today. The next total solar eclipse that can be seen from a large part of North America won't happen until 2044. A refraction from the camera's lens is visible in the lower part of the frame. (Photo by Chip Somodevilla/Getty Images)$
WASHINGTON, DC – APRIL 08: The solar eclipse is seen above the Washington Monument on April 08, 2024 in Washington, DC. People have traveled to areas across North America that are in the “path of totality” in order to experience the eclipse today. The next total solar eclipse that can be seen from a large part of North America won’t happen until 2044. A refraction from the camera’s lens is visible in the lower part of the frame. (Photo by Chip Somodevilla/Getty Images)

22 DE FEBRERO, MEXICO – APRIL 8: A family watches the eclipse using special glasses on April 8, 2024 in 22 de Febrero, Mexico. Millions of people have flocked to areas across North America that are in the path of totality in order to experience a total solar eclipse. During the event, the moon will pass in between the sun and the Earth, appearing to block the sun. (Photo by Cristopher Rogel Blanquet/Getty Images)

A window reflection of the Empire State building appears behind James Hudson, left, from Long Island, N.Y., as he wears special glasses to view a partial eclipse of the moon covering the sun, Monday April 8, 2024, in New York. (AP Photo/Bebeto Matthews)

TOPSHOT – People look toward the sky at the ‘Edge at Hudson Yards’ observation deck during a solar eclipse across North America, in New York City on April 8, 2024. This year’s path of totality is 115 miles (185 kilometers) wide and home to nearly 32 million Americans, with an additional 150 million living less than 200 miles from the strip. The next total solar eclipse that can be seen from a large part of North America won’t come around until 2044. (Photo by Charly TRIBALLEAU / AFP) (Photo by CHARLY TRIBALLEAU/AFP via Getty Images)

CARBONDALE, ILLINOIS – APRIL 08: People view the total eclipse from Saluki Stadium on the campus of Southern Illinois University on April 08, 2024 in Carbondale, Illinois. Millions of people have flocked to areas across North America in the “path of totality” to experience a total solar eclipse. During the event, the moon will pass in between the sun and the Earth, appearing to block the sun. (Photo by Scott Olson/Getty Images)

A partial eclipse is seen in one of the telescopes at the Foothill College Observatory as Mehrnoush Shahhosseini of Palo Alto, right, and her friend, Mehraneh Khadjevand of Redwood City, center, wait their turn at the telescope in Los Altos Hills, Calif., on Monday, April 8, 2024. (Dai Sugano/Bay Area News Group)

Brisemae Long, of Alameda, center, joins her father Robert Baylosis, of San Leandro, as they look up during a partial solar eclipse viewing event held at the Chabot Space & Science Center in Oakland, Calif., on Monday, April 8, 2024. About 400 people attended the event to watch the moon pass between the Earth and sun, obscuring about one-third of the sun over the Bay Area. (Jose Carlos Fajardo/Bay Area News Group)

RUSSELLVILLE, ARKANSAS – APRIL 08: A couple kisses while holding a dog during a mass wedding at the Total Eclipse of the Heart solar eclipse festival on April 8, 2024 in Russellville, Arkansas. Millions of people have flocked to areas across North America that are in the “path of totality” in order to experience a total solar eclipse. During the event, the moon will pass in between the sun and the Earth, appearing to block the sun. (Photo by Mario Tama/Getty Images)

ARLINGTON, VIRGINIA – APRIL 8: The Washington Monument is visible as people view the partial solar eclipse at Gravelly Point Park on April 8, 2024 in Arlington, Virginia. People have traveled to areas across North America that are in the “path of totality” in order to experience the eclipse today, with the next total solar eclipse that can be seen from a large part of North America won’t happen until 2044. (Photo by Andrew Harnik/Getty Images)

Patrons look up at the sun during an solar eclipse during a practice round in preparation for the Masters golf tournament at Augusta National Golf Club Monday, April 8, 2024, in Augusta, Ga. (AP Photo/George Walker IV)

Members of the press work while the moon eclipses the sun during a total solar eclipse seen from Mazatlan, Sinaloa state, Mexico on April 8, 2024. This year’s path of totality is 115 miles (185 kilometers) wide and home to nearly 32 million Americans, with an additional 150 million living less than 200 miles from the strip. The next total solar eclipse that can be seen from a large part of North America won’t come around until 2044. (Photo by RASHIDE FRIAS / AFP) (Photo by RASHIDE FRIAS/AFP via Getty Images)

TOPSHOT – In this composite of 7 photographs, the moon passes by the sun into totality creating the diamond ring effect during a total solar eclipse in Bloomington, Indiana, on April 8, 2024. This year’s path of totality is 115 miles (185 kilometers) wide and home to nearly 32 million Americans, with an additional 150 million living less than 200 miles from the strip. The next total solar eclipse that can be seen from a large part of North America won’t come around until 2044. (Photo by JOSH EDELSON / AFP) (Photo by JOSH EDELSON/AFP via Getty Images)

Spectators use special glasses to watch a solar eclipse near Griffith Observatory on Monday, April 8, 2024, in Los Angeles. (AP Photo/Andy Bao)

People wear solar eclipse glasses as they observe the partial phase of a total solar eclipse, in Kingston, Ont., Monday, April 8, 2024. (Justin Tang/The Canadian Press via AP)

People gather to watch the total solar eclipse from Niagara Falls, Ontario, Monday, April 8, 2024. (AP Photo/Matt Rourke)

The moon partially covers the sun during a total solar eclipse in Mazatlan, Mexico, Monday, April 8, 2024. (AP Photo/Fernando Llano)

WASHINGTON, DC – APRIL 8: People gather on the National Mall to view the partial solar eclipse on April 8, 2024 in Washington, DC. People have traveled to areas across North America that are in the “path of totality” in order to experience the eclipse today, with the next total solar eclipse that can be seen from a large part of North America won’t happen until 2044. (Photo by Kent Nishimura/Getty Images)

People gather to look on during a solar eclipse outside the Fiserv Forum Monday, April 8, 2024, in Milwaukee, Wis. (AP Photo/Pablo Martinez Monsivais)

DALLAS, TEXAS – APRIL 08: Service dogs wear goggles before boarding Southwest flight 1252 from Dallas, Texas to Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania which passed through the path of totality on April 08, 2024 in Dallas, Texas. Millions of people have flocked to areas across North America that are in the “path of totality” in order to experience a total solar eclipse. During the event, the moon will pass in between the sun and the Earth, appearing to block the sun. (Photo by Justin Sullivan/Getty Images)

IN FLIGHT – APRIL 08: Jose Noble lays on his daughter Alayna’s lap to try and catch a glimpse of a solar eclipse as the plane passes through the path of totality during a Southwest flight 1252 from Dallas, Texas to Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania on April 08, 2024 in flight to Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania. Millions of people have flocked to areas across North America that are in the “path of totality” in order to experience a total solar eclipse. During the event, the moon will pass in between the sun and the Earth, appearing to block the sun. (Photo by Justin Sullivan/Getty Images)

Samantha Palmer, left, and Gerald Lester watch a total solar eclipse before getting married during the event, Monday, April 8, 2024, in Trenton, Ohio. (AP Photo/Joshua A. Bickel)

BRADY, TEXAS – APRIL 08: The Chavez family watches the Total eclipse together on April 08, 2024 in Brady, Texas. Millions of people have flocked to areas across North America that are in the “path of totality” in order to experience the eclipse today. During the event, the moon will pass in between the Sun and the Earth, appearing to block the Sun. (Photo by Brandon Bell/Getty Images)

RUSSELLVILLE, ARKANSAS – APRIL 08: A bride and groom view the solar eclipse amid a darkened sky after marrying at a mass wedding at the Total Eclipse of the Heart festival on April 8, 2024 in Russellville, Arkansas. Millions of people have flocked to areas across North America that are in the “path of totality” in order to experience a total solar eclipse. During the event, the moon will pass in between the sun and the Earth, appearing to block the sun. (Photo by Mario Tama/Getty Images)

People use special glasses to watch the total solar eclipse from Agers Falls in Lyons Falls, N.Y., Monday, April 8, 2024. (AP Photo/Sydney Schaefer)

This composite image of multiple exposures shows the progression of a partial solar eclipse over the Washington Monument, Monday, April 8, 2024, in Washington. (Bill Ingalls/NASA via AP)

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Laura A. Oda, Paul Rogers, Dai Sugano

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April 8, 2024
Look up! DC-area residents take in rare sight of partial solar eclipse – WTOP News

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The sky dimmed and a chill blew through as the moon moved into place to partially block the sun on Monday afternoon; spectators at the National Mall in D.C. burst into applause at the sight of a rare solar eclipse.

Listen live to WTOP for team coverage of the solar eclipse around the U.S.

The sky dimmed and a chill blew through as the moon moved into place to partially block the sun on Monday afternoon; thousands of spectators on the National Mall in D.C. burst into applause at the sight of a rare solar eclipse.

Eclipse glasses in hand, millions of people around the D.C. area and across the U.S. paused to look up while the solar eclipse unfolded.

PHOTOS: Glasses on for eclipse mania!

Thousands of those people lined the National Mall, sitting in the grass and gazing up. Among the onlookers was Sarah Hewes, who brought her two kids along to watch.

“It’s just one of those really unique human experience that brings everyone together,” Hewes said. It’s nice it’s a good reminder of what makes our spot in the universe beautiful and wonderful.

While those in the D.C. region weren’t in the path of totality, area residents could spot a partial solar eclipse. A few passing clouds and warm temperatures made for an ideal forecast for viewing.

The new moon began crossing the face of the sun at 2:04 p.m. The sun was obscured 89% at maximum eclipse at 3:20 p.m. And by 4:32 p.m., the eclipse had ended.

Some of those who snagged a spot on the National Mall are in from out of town. One traveler from Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, said he came to D.C. for the cherry blossoms and to check out the monuments, but stuck around for the eclipse.

“We learned yesterday that they were having an actual eclipse festival. We decided to tag along,” he told WTOP. “It seemed like a good place to put out a blanket and relax.”

Earlier on Monday, thousands of people lined up on the National Mall to get last-minute safety glasses for viewing the eclipse as part of an festival hosted by the Smithsonian’s National Air and Space Museum. A spokesperson told WTOP’s Nick Iannelli that event organizers passed out more than 2,500 pairs.

What did kids think of the solar eclipse?

Some local schools created a learning opportunity out of Monday’s eclipse. Kids at Colvin Run Elementary School in Fairfax County, Virginia, sat in the grass, some in lawn chairs and looked awe-struck at the solar eclipse.

Some students told WTOP the sight of the shielded sun reminded them of a cookie with a bite taken out of it.

Outside of the free glasses, the museum offered telescopes and supplies for making a pinhole projector to safely watch the eclipse and other educational materials.

“We’re here to just educate folks who have down to the mall about how incredible the eclipse is, how it changes our earth and our climate,” said Shellie Pick, who’s with the Smithsonian Science Education Center. “Just spreading science today!”

Crowds gathered on the National Mall gaze up.
(WTOP/Nick Iannelli)
WTOP/Nick Iannelli

Dozens of people take in the solar eclipse nearby the U.S. Capitol in D.C.
(WTOP/Mitchell Miller)
WTOP/Mitchell Miller

Elementary school students in Fairfax County, Virginia, gaze at the solar eclipse.
(WTOP/Kyle Cooper)
WTOP/Kyle Cooper

Students at Colvin Run Elementary School are watching as the solar eclipse unfolds.
(WTOP/Kyle Cooper)
WTOP/Kyle Cooper

(WTOP/Kyle Cooper)
WTOP/Kyle Cooper

Solar eclipse viewers are snagging spots on the National Mall for witnessing the phenomenon.
(WTOP/Nick Iannelli)
WTOP/Nick Iannelli

In the D.C. area, the new moon will begin crossing the face of the sun at 2:04 p.m.
(WTOP/Nick Iannelli)
WTOP/Nick Iannelli

The Smithsonian’s National Air and Space Museum hosted festival ahead on the National Mall April 8, 2024.
(WTOP/Nick Iannelli)
WTOP/Nick Iannelli

Hundreds of people lined up for free solar eclipse glasses, shortly before the event began April 8, 2024.
(WTOP/Nick Iannelli)
WTOP/Nick Iannelli

Statue of Franklin Roosevelt with eclipse glasses on April 8, 2024.
(Courtesy Ron Cohn)
Courtesy Ron Cohn

Statue of John Ericsson at the John Ericsson Memorial in Southwest D.C. with eclipse glasses.
(Courtesy Ron Cohn)
Courtesy Ron Cohn

What you need to know about solar eclipses

A total eclipse happens when the moon lines up perfectly between Earth and the sun, blocking all sunlight. Monday’s solar event almost twice as long, with an even wider audience, than the total solar eclipse that stretched across the U.S. in 2017.

It lasted around 4 minutes and 28 seconds at its peak for those in its path of total darkness, which stretches from Mexico’s Pacific coast, crosses into Texas and 14 other U.S. states, before it exited over Canada.

North America won’t experience another coast-to-coast total solar eclipse for 21 years — that one will stretch from Northern California to Cape Canaveral, Florida.

More on the solar eclipse:

If you missed looking toward the sky, NASA streamed telescope views of the sun.

The Exploratorium museum, Time and Date and Slooh also streamed eclipse day views.

Eclipse viewing parties in the DC area

From educational events on the National Mall and the University of Maryland to nature-centered viewings at parks across Virginia, there are a number of viewing parties across the D.C. area. Check out WTOP’s full list of events.

Solar eclipse deals and specials

Many businesses are taking advantage of the total solar eclipse to promote special deals and events. Fast food chains and snack brands are selling limited edition versions of their products nationally. Airlines such as Southwest and Delta have advertised eclipse-viewing flight paths.

WTOP’s Emily Venezky, Greg Redfern and The Associated Press contributed to this report. WTOP’s Nick Iannelli reported from the National Mall in D.C. and WTOP’s Kyle Cooper reported from Fairfax County, Virginia.

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© 2024 WTOP. All Rights Reserved. This website is not intended for users located within the European Economic Area.

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Matt Small

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April 8, 2024
Huge crowds await a total solar eclipse in North America. Clouds may spoil the view
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ECLIPSE? ANTOINETTE THEY NEED TO KNOW THAT THEY NEED TO GET THOSE SUNGLASSES. EXCUSE ME? THE SOLAR ECLIPSE GLASSES, THE SUNGLASSES. THEY’RE NOT GOING TO CUT IT TODAY. SO AGAIN, YOU GOT TO BE PREPARED IF YOU’RE LOOKING FOR THE LAST MINUTE. I ACTUALLY HAVE THREE PAIRS. SO MY DMS ARE OPEN IN MY PRICES. THEY ARE VERY REASONABLE. AND THE REASON YOU HAVE TO DO THAT IS BECAUSE DOCTORS SAY JUST A LITTLE BIT OF LOOKING INTO THE SUN CAN REALLY CAUSE SOME DAMAGE. THE THOUSANDS, THE SUNGLASSES, EXCUSE ME, THE SOLAR ECLIPSE GLASSES, THEY ARE THOUSANDS OF TIMES DARKER THAN THE DARKEST SUNGLASSES. AND THEY DO COMPLY WITH THE ISO STANDARD. A RETINA SPECIALIST WITH MASS EYE AND EAR SAYS EVEN A QUICK GLANCE AT THE ECLIPSE CAN CAUSE EYE DAMAGE IF YOU DON’T HAVE THE RIGHT GEAR. SO NO MATTER YOUR AGE, THE SUNLIGHT CAN BE EXTREMELY DAMAGING. IF YOU DO STARE AT THE SUN, YOU’RE GOING TO GET A CRESCENT SHAPED BRANDING OF THE SHAPE OF THE SUN BURNED INTO THE LIGHT SENSING CELLS IN YOUR RETINA, AND IT CAN CAUSE PERMANENT VISION LOSS IN THAT AREA. SO. SO FOR PEOPLE LIKE UP KELLY ANN IN THE PATH OF TOTALITY, THEY DON’T NEED THE SOLAR ECLIPSE GLASSES. DURING THAT BRIEF TOTAL PHASE OF THE ECLIPSE. BUT FOR THOSE OF US HERE IN BOSTON, YOU GOT TO KEEP THOSE GLASSES ON THE WHOLE TIME TODAY. AND IT’S REALLY IMPORTANT. PARENTS, TO REMIND THAT TO THE CHILDREN, SOME SCHOOL DISTRICTS, THEY ARE DOING SOME ADJUSTED POTENTIAL RELEASES TO ALLOW THOSE KIDS TO SEE THIS. BUT AGAIN, YOU GOT TO EXPRESS TO THOSE EXCITED CHILDREN THEY GOT TO KEEP THOSE GLASSES ON HERE IN BOSTON THE ENTIRE TIME. RE
Huge crowds await a total solar eclipse in North America. Clouds may spoil the view

Updated: 8:23 AM PDT Apr 8, 2024

Millions of spectators along a narrow corridor stretching from Mexico to the U.S. to Canada eagerly awaited Monday’s celestial sensation – a total eclipse of the sun – even as forecasters called for clouds.What to know: An estimated 32 million people across the U.S. live within the path of totality, or locations where the moon will completely block the face of the sun from view for a few moments.It will take just 1 hour and 40 minutes for the moon’s shadow to race more than 4,000 miles across the continent.Clear skies are only promised in northern New England to Canada. During the eclipse, the moon will pass in front of the sun and obscure it for up to 4 1/2 minutes.The rest of North America will see a partial eclipse, weather permitting.The best weather was expected at the tail end of the eclipse in Vermont, New Hampshire and Maine, as well as New Brunswick and Newfoundland in Canada.It promised to be North America’s biggest eclipse crowd ever, thanks to the densely populated path and the lure of more than four minutes of midday darkness in Texas and other choice spots. Almost everyone in North America was guaranteed at least a partial eclipse, weather permitting. The show gets underway in the Pacific shortly before noon EDT.Video above: Total solar eclipse informationIn Texas, the south-central region was locked in clouds, but it was a little bit better to the northeast, said National Weather Service meteorologist Cody Snell.”Dallas is pretty much a 50-50 shot,” he said.The cliff-hanging uncertainty added to the drama. But the overcast skies in Mesquite near Dallas didn’t rattle Erin Froneberger, who was in town for business and brought along her eclipse glasses.”We are always just rushing, rushing, rushing,” she said. “But this is an event that we can just take a moment, a few seconds that it’s going to happen and embrace it.”Sara Laneau, of Westfield, Vermont, woke up at 4 a.m. Monday to bring her 16-year-old niece to nearby Jay Peak ski resort to catch the eclipse after a morning on the slopes.”This will be a first from me and an experience of a lifetime,” said Laneau, who was dressed in a purple metallic ski suit with a solar eclipse T-shirt underneath.At Niagara Falls State Park, tourists streamed in under cloudy skies with wagons, strollers, coolers and lawn chairs. Park officials expected a large crowd at the popular site overlooking the falls.Video above: Preview before the eclipse in Erie, PennsylvaniaFor Monday’s full eclipse, the moon was due to slip right in front of the sun, entirely blocking it. The resulting twilight, with only the sun’s outer atmosphere or corona visible, would be long enough for birds and other animals to fall silent, and for planets, stars and maybe even a comet to pop out.The out-of-sync darkness lasts up to 4 minutes, 28 seconds. That’s almost twice as long as it was during the U.S. coast-to-coast eclipse seven years ago because the moon is closer to Earth. It will be another 21 years before the U.S. sees another total solar eclipse on this scale.Extending five hours from the first bite out of the sun to the last, Monday’s eclipse begins in the Pacific and makes landfall at Mazatlan, Mexico, before moving into Texas, Oklahoma, Arkansas and 12 other U.S. states in the Midwest, Middle Atlantic and New England, and then Canada. Last stop: Newfoundland, with the eclipse ending in the North Atlantic.It will take just 1 hour, 40 minutes for the moon’s shadow to race more than 4,000 miles across the continent.Eye protection is needed with proper eclipse glasses and filters to look at the sun, except when it ducks completely out of sight during an eclipse.The path of totality – approximately 115 miles wide – encompasses several major cities this time, including Dallas; Indianapolis; Cleveland; Buffalo, New York; and Montreal. An estimated 44 million people live within the track, with a couple hundred million more within 200 miles. Add in all the eclipse chasers, amateur astronomers, scientists and just plain curious, and it’s no wonder the hotels and flights are sold out and the roads jammed.Experts from NASA and scores of universities are posted along the route, poised to launch research rockets and weather balloons, and conduct experiments. The International Space Station’s seven astronauts also will be on the lookout, 270 miles up.
Millions of spectators along a narrow corridor stretching from Mexico to the U.S. to Canada eagerly awaited Monday’s celestial sensation – a total eclipse of the sun – even as forecasters called for clouds.

What to know:

An estimated 32 million people across the U.S. live within the path of totality, or locations where the moon will completely block the face of the sun from view for a few moments.

It will take just 1 hour and 40 minutes for the moon’s shadow to race more than 4,000 miles across the continent.

Clear skies are only promised in northern New England to Canada. During the eclipse, the moon will pass in front of the sun and obscure it for up to 4 1/2 minutes.

The rest of North America will see a partial eclipse, weather permitting.

The best weather was expected at the tail end of the eclipse in Vermont, New Hampshire and Maine, as well as New Brunswick and Newfoundland in Canada.

It promised to be North America’s biggest eclipse crowd ever, thanks to the densely populated path and the lure of more than four minutes of midday darkness in Texas and other choice spots. Almost everyone in North America was guaranteed at least a partial eclipse, weather permitting. The show gets underway in the Pacific shortly before noon EDT.

Video above: Total solar eclipse information

In Texas, the south-central region was locked in clouds, but it was a little bit better to the northeast, said National Weather Service meteorologist Cody Snell.

“Dallas is pretty much a 50-50 shot,” he said.

The cliff-hanging uncertainty added to the drama. But the overcast skies in Mesquite near Dallas didn’t rattle Erin Froneberger, who was in town for business and brought along her eclipse glasses.

“We are always just rushing, rushing, rushing,” she said. “But this is an event that we can just take a moment, a few seconds that it’s going to happen and embrace it.”

Sara Laneau, of Westfield, Vermont, woke up at 4 a.m. Monday to bring her 16-year-old niece to nearby Jay Peak ski resort to catch the eclipse after a morning on the slopes.

“This will be a first from me and an experience of a lifetime,” said Laneau, who was dressed in a purple metallic ski suit with a solar eclipse T-shirt underneath.

At Niagara Falls State Park, tourists streamed in under cloudy skies with wagons, strollers, coolers and lawn chairs. Park officials expected a large crowd at the popular site overlooking the falls.

Video above: Preview before the eclipse in Erie, Pennsylvania

For Monday’s full eclipse, the moon was due to slip right in front of the sun, entirely blocking it. The resulting twilight, with only the sun’s outer atmosphere or corona visible, would be long enough for birds and other animals to fall silent, and for planets, stars and maybe even a comet to pop out.

The out-of-sync darkness lasts up to 4 minutes, 28 seconds. That’s almost twice as long as it was during the U.S. coast-to-coast eclipse seven years ago because the moon is closer to Earth. It will be another 21 years before the U.S. sees another total solar eclipse on this scale.

Extending five hours from the first bite out of the sun to the last, Monday’s eclipse begins in the Pacific and makes landfall at Mazatlan, Mexico, before moving into Texas, Oklahoma, Arkansas and 12 other U.S. states in the Midwest, Middle Atlantic and New England, and then Canada. Last stop: Newfoundland, with the eclipse ending in the North Atlantic.

It will take just 1 hour, 40 minutes for the moon’s shadow to race more than 4,000 miles across the continent.

Eye protection is needed with proper eclipse glasses and filters to look at the sun, except when it ducks completely out of sight during an eclipse.

The path of totality – approximately 115 miles wide – encompasses several major cities this time, including Dallas; Indianapolis; Cleveland; Buffalo, New York; and Montreal. An estimated 44 million people live within the track, with a couple hundred million more within 200 miles. Add in all the eclipse chasers, amateur astronomers, scientists and just plain curious, and it’s no wonder the hotels and flights are sold out and the roads jammed.

Experts from NASA and scores of universities are posted along the route, poised to launch research rockets and weather balloons, and conduct experiments. The International Space Station’s seven astronauts also will be on the lookout, 270 miles up.
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April 8, 2024
UPDATED: Be Ready for Dallas Traffic, Road Closures During Total Solar Eclipse

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Editor’s Note: 04/08/2024, 5:57 a.m.: This article has been updated with new information on road closures in downtown Dallas from the Dallas Police Department. As we inch ever closer to April 8, when Dallas may or may not get an awesome view of the total solar eclipse, it’s a safe bet that plenty of people will be out and about, hoping for the best, regardless of what Pete Delkus tweets out…

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Kelly Dearmore

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April 8, 2024
How will the solar eclipse impact Sacramento?

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(FOX40.COM) — Sacramento may not experience the totality of the upcoming solar eclipse, however, the area will still feel the effects of a partial one.

“If you didn’t know it was coming, you might just write it off as an abnormally cool spring day,” said Raj Dixit, Sacramento Valley Astronomical Society.

How does animal behavior change during a solar eclipse?

Sacramento is expected to experience 45 percent coverage of the sun, according to Dixit.

“It’s going to appear like someone took a bite out of the sun, from the bottom,” Dixit said. “Imagine just the sun, but half as bright.”

Solar Eclipse 2024: NWS provides Northern California weather forecast for April 8 eclipse

The Sacramento Valley Astronomical Society reported that there are some similarities in what people will be able to see in Sacramento compared to 2017, the last time there was a total eclipse.

Residents of the Capital City should expect to witness the eclipse at 11:15 a.m. Experts said it will be accompanied by a noticeable drop in temperature – 1 to 2 degrees.

“Back in 2017, when there was another total eclipse, Sacramento had a better show,” Dixit said. “It was 79 percent covered, as opposed to less than 50. And you could definitely feel the temperature drop five degrees.”

No matter the degree of what will be seen, Dixit said people should soak in the eclipse because the next total eclipse won’t happen again for about 20 years.

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Veronica Catlin

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April 7, 2024
Our Chicago: Total solar eclipse travel tips, dealing with massive crowds

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CHICAGO (WLS) — After years of anticipation, what’s being called the Great American Solar Eclipse of 2024 is just hours away.

It will move from Mexico, into the U.S. and then Canada, before moving out to sea.

Parts of Illinois and Indiana are in the 115-mile-wide path of totality, which is the area where the moon blocks the sun 100%.

The path includes Carbondale, which was also in the path of totality in 2017. Many people are headed there, including a group from the Adler Planetarium.

Massive crowds from Chicago are preparing to travel down to southern Illinois and Indiana for the 2024 Great American Total Solar Eclipse on Monday.

“It’s just such an exciting thing for us being all true astronomy geeks,” Dr. Geza Gyuk, director of astronomy at Alder Planetarium, said.

He was near Carbondale for the 2017 eclipse.

“It’s just, it’s otherworldly it’s just wonderful and just such an experience because the quality of the light as totality approaches it starts getting strange, and there’s weird patterns of shadows on the ground. And then totality occurs and there’s this marvelous sort of, thing in the sky,” Gyuk said. “You never experience anything like it looks like there’s an eclipse, well it is an eclipse, it looks like a sunset all around you 360 degrees. The birds stop singing, it becomes dark, you can see stars in the sky. It’s very strange.”

ABC News reports that the total solar eclipse is expected to be the largest mass travel event this year in the U.S.

Indiana Governor Eric Holcomb has declared a state of emergency, expecting massive crowds. 100,000 to 200,000 people are expected in the prime viewing area in Southern Illinois.

Maria Castaneda, a spokesperson with IDOT, joined ABC7 to speak about travel plans for people going downstate from the Chicago area for the eclipse.

A good number of those will be from the Chicago area, but before people get in the car and head south, the Illinois Department of Transportation has some advice.

Maria Castaneda, a spokesperson with IDOT, says people have to think of it like any trip.

“Plan ahead, map out your route, make sure you have it clearly defined which route you’re going to be taking,” she said. “Also use various travel apps.”

There are various ways to head south.

“I know that I-57, if you’re leaving here from Chicago, is a pretty direct route, but you can also hop on I-55 and connect with 64,” Castaneda said. “It really depends on where you’re heading from, what route you’re going to use. Give yourself a lot of extra time, because there’s going to be expected big crowds so it’s going to take you much longer than your normal trip, if you typically do drive to southern Illinois. And if you’re not, and you’re not aware of it, then you definitely need to give yourself extra time because you’re going into an area you’re not that well versed with.”

It’s not only going to be crowded on the drive south, but also the drive home.

“Plan to stay for a little while. There’s some beautiful areas to see. Enjoy what southern Illinois can provide,” Castaneda said. “Leave a little later than maybe you intended to drive back and you could hopefully avoid some of the really big heavy crowds.”

Copyright © 2024 WLS-TV. All Rights Reserved.

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WLS

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April 7, 2024
Updated Total Solar Eclipse Forecast: Monday Remains Cloudy, With Slight Chance for Optimal Viewing

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Editors Note 04/06/2024, 12:21 p.m.: The National Weather Service in Fort Worth updated its forecast for April 8 on Saturday. New information includes a note stating “10% of the area will likely experience enough breaks in the clouds for more optimal viewing,” before adding “however, these exact locations cannot be forecast well in advance.”…

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Kelly Dearmore

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April 6, 2024
From Krispy Kreme to SunChips, more and more companies roll out total solar eclipse promotions

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More and more businesses are taking advantage of the total solar eclipse set to dim skies across North America on Monday.

In the snacks department alone, Krispy Kreme is teaming up with Oreo to sell a limited doughnut-cookie creation. Sonic Drive-In is selling a “Blackout Slush Float.” And Frito-Lay’s SunChips has unveiled a new flavor that will only be available during the celestial event’s nearly 4 and a half minutes of totality.

MORE: Are you in the path of totality? Total solar eclipse streaks across US on April 8

MoonPie also kicked off a “Sun vs. Moon” smackdown-themed campaign as the chocolate snack maker promotes its “eclipse survival kit,” made up of four mini MoonPies and two pairs of eclipse glasses.

Meanwhile, airlines like Southwest and Delta have advertised eclipse-viewing flight paths. And beyond promotions from big-name brands, small businesses along the 115 mile (185 kilometer)-wide prime path are leading the charge to meet the incoming tourist demand.

Some towns and local vendors have been anticipating the celestial event and its huge crowds for years. There are oodles of special eclipse safety glasses for sale, along with T-shirts emblazoned with clever slogans and more astronomical souvenirs. Other offerings include eclipse-themed beer, specialty dining packages and watch parties at amusement parks, wineries and zoos.

MORE: How to take photos of the solar eclipse

Marketing tied to rare spectacles, like the sun’s disappearing act behind the moon, isn’t new.

In 2017, the last time the U.S. saw a big slice of a total solar eclipse, scores of companies tapped into the action – including Krispy Kreme.

The Charlotte, North Carolina-based company previously rolled out limited-edition chocolate glazed doughnuts for the 2017 eclipse, and those treats have made a few returns since. But that might not be the case for this year’s “Total Solar Eclipse Doughnut.” The Krispy Kreme-Oreo combo is set to be available from Friday through Monday, according to an announcement from the chain this week.

Copyright © 2024 by The Associated Press. All Rights Reserved.

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AP

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April 2, 2024
Woman anticipates solar eclipse on day of 102nd birthday

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As everyone anticipates the total solar eclipse set to grace the skies of a large swath of the country on April 8, one woman from northern New York is gearing up for what she calls a “momentous occasion” in more ways than one.Dot Pelkey, originally from Altona and a retired Georgia-Pacific employee from Plattsburgh, has resided at the Watson Memorial Senior Housing in Mooers for the past 11 years. Despite her 101 years of age, Pelkey remains remarkably active, often seen taking daily walks and socializing with her fellow neighbors.”I get along with all of them. I can tell them off sometimes, but I get along with them. I love them all. And they’re all so good to me,” Pelkey shared.Coinciding with the much-anticipated solar eclipse is Pelkey’s 102nd birthday, an event she eagerly awaits. “I’m anxious, and I want to live to see it. I didn’t want to live to my birthday, I wanted to live to see this. And I guess I’ll make it. It’s not too far away,” Pelkey expressed with anticipation. Remarkably, this won’t be Pelkey’s first encounter with a solar eclipse. She recalls the solar eclipse back in 1932, though she notes that “this is going to be a complete one. The other one had a little bit. I wasn’t very old so. But I remember talking about it more than anything.”The staff and residents at Watson Memorial Senior Housing share Pelkey’s excitement, particularly noting the significance of the eclipse aligning with her milestone birthday.”It’s especially important for somebody who’s going to be turning 102 on that day. So it just seems very symbolic of the times,” remarked Lisa Delong, who works closely with Pelkey at the retirement home.As the countdown to April 8 continues, Pelkey eagerly awaits the rare celestial event, marking both a remarkable milestone in her life and a moment of wonder under the country’s skies.

As everyone anticipates the total solar eclipse set to grace the skies of a large swath of the country on April 8, one woman from northern New York is gearing up for what she calls a “momentous occasion” in more ways than one.

Dot Pelkey, originally from Altona and a retired Georgia-Pacific employee from Plattsburgh, has resided at the Watson Memorial Senior Housing in Mooers for the past 11 years. Despite her 101 years of age, Pelkey remains remarkably active, often seen taking daily walks and socializing with her fellow neighbors.

“I get along with all of them. I can tell them off sometimes, but I get along with them. I love them all. And they’re all so good to me,” Pelkey shared.

Coinciding with the much-anticipated solar eclipse is Pelkey’s 102nd birthday, an event she eagerly awaits.

“I’m anxious, and I want to live to see it. I didn’t want to live to my birthday, I wanted to live to see this. And I guess I’ll make it. It’s not too far away,” Pelkey expressed with anticipation.

Remarkably, this won’t be Pelkey’s first encounter with a solar eclipse. She recalls the solar eclipse back in 1932, though she notes that “this is going to be a complete one. The other one had a little bit. I wasn’t very old so. But I remember talking about it more than anything.”

The staff and residents at Watson Memorial Senior Housing share Pelkey’s excitement, particularly noting the significance of the eclipse aligning with her milestone birthday.

“It’s especially important for somebody who’s going to be turning 102 on that day. So it just seems very symbolic of the times,” remarked Lisa Delong, who works closely with Pelkey at the retirement home.

As the countdown to April 8 continues, Pelkey eagerly awaits the rare celestial event, marking both a remarkable milestone in her life and a moment of wonder under the country’s skies.

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March 30, 2024
What Michiganders should know about the 2024 total eclipse

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It’s been 70 years since Michigan has experienced a total solar eclipse, but we may get another chance to see it this year on Monday, April 8.

The path of totality, or the shadow cast when the moon completely blocks out the sun, will fall across just a tiny sliver of southeast Michigan. Since it will be another 75 years, in 2099, when Michiganders fall in the path of another total solar eclipse, astronomers are urging people to travel to see the beautiful, rare phenomenon if they can.

While there is also something called an annular eclipse that happens every one to two years, this one is different, and much more spectacular, according to University of Michigan astronomer David Gerdes. With both eclipses, the moon passes directly in front of the sun, but it is not completely covering it during an annular, or “ring of fire,” eclipse, so “the spectacular sights of a total eclipse — the delicate solar corona, darkness in the middle of the day, 360-degree twilight around the horizon — are not visible.”

Only three Michigan cities — Luna Pier, Ottawa, and Vienna, all located on the southeastern border — will be in the line of totality for the event.

However, most of Michigan will see at least a partial eclipse, and the closer to Ohio or Indiana borders the better. People in Ann Arbor can experience a very deep partial eclipse at 98.5%, while Detroiters will be able to see around 95%.

Fortunately, the event will last twice as long as the last one in 2017, at around four whole minutes.

In Detroit, there will be a solar eclipse watch party hosted by the Detroit Riverfront Conservancy at Cullen Plaza from 2-4 p.m. on April 8, as the eclipse will come into view at 1:58 p.m. and reach closest to totality at 3:14 p.m. Some Detroit Public Library branches are also holding solar eclipse viewing parties.

So take a little road trip for the best view or catch the nearly total eclipse from home, but either way be sure to mark your calendar. You won’t want to miss this rare cosmic event.

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Layla McMurtrie

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March 5, 2024
Guide: Total solar eclipse events and watch parties
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*Attached video: Total Solar Eclipse, What will weather be that day?

CLEVELAND (WJW) — The total solar eclipse will be here before we know it, so it’s important to have the perfect viewing spot in mind so you don’t miss it.

According to NASA, the eclipse will start in Cleveland on April 8 at 1:59 p.m. and reach peak darkness at 3:13 p.m. before ending at 4:29 p.m.

Thousands of people are expected to head to Cleveland and Northeast Ohio to watch the phenomenon, so Fox 8 News put together a list of events so you know where to celebrate. Read more:

Ashtabula County
- SPIRE Academy is hosting an eclipse festival on April 8 from 10 a.m. – 4 p.m. The soccer field and basketball court will be open and there will be shows, a lunch buffet, a beer and wine garden, bouncy houses, live music and more. Click here to get your ticket now.
Cuyahoga County
- Restaurants like Neuvo Modern Mexican in Cleveland, which is typically closed on Mondays, will be open on April 8 from Noon until 6 p.m. The building has wall-to-wall windows and a wraparound patio outside making it an ideal viewing spot.
- The Great Lakes Science Center is hosting a series of events to commemorate the historic day. The Total Eclipse Fest will be held from April 6-8. Click here for more information.
- The eclipse falls on the same day as the Cleveland Guardians‘ home opener. The Guardians announced Wednesday that the first pitch in their home opener will not be thrown before 5:10 p.m.
- Head to any of the Cleveland Metroparks for a great viewing spot of the total solar eclipse! Click here for eclipse apparel, events leading up to the eclipse and more details about viewing the solar eclipse at Cleveland Metroparks.
- The Cleveland Museum of Natural History is holding a weekend celebration of the total solar eclipse on April 8. Click here for more details.
- Bookhouse Brewing is holding a total solar eclipse watch party! The first 100 customers will get free eclipse glasses. Click here for more details.
- Crocker Park is hosting “Total Eclipse of the Park” on April 8 from 2-3:30 p.m. in Westlake. There will be complimentary viewing glasses available with music and exclusive sales to enjoy. Click here for more details.
- The City of Euclid is holding an eclipse festival starting at 1 p.m. on April 8. You can watch the eclipse at Euclid Community Stadium with viewing glasses provided by the city. Click here for festival information and details.
- The City of Beachwood is holding a “Beachwood Blackout, 2024 Total Solar Eclipse Party” on April 8 from 2-4:30 p.m. Eclipse glasses will be available. Click here for more details.
- The Rock & Roll Hall of Fame is celebrating the total solar eclipse with a weekend-long event this April. The Rock Hall’s Solarfest is a four-day celebration starting on Friday, April 5, and going through Monday, April 8. Click here for more details.
These schools will close for the total solar eclipse

Erie County
- Cedar Point plans to open up some of its rides on The Boardwalk and in Kiddy Kingdom for its special Total Eclipse of the Point event from noon to 6 p.m. on April 8. Click here for everything you need to know about this event.
- The Great Wolf Lodge in Sandusky is hosting an outdoor watch party with music, dances, crafts and more. Everyone in attendance will get Great Wolf Lodge eclipse viewing glasses and specialty Wolf Ears. Click here for more details.
Geauga County
- Head to Chardon Square for featured presentations at 12:45 p.m. and 1:45 p.m. for eclipse-inspired activities, an art contest for students and food trucks. Events will be held from 12:30 p.m. – 3:30 p.m. on April 8. There will also be free solar eclipse glasses provided by Chardon Rotary.
- The Great Geauga Total Solar Eclipse is being held on April 8 from 11 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. at the Geauga County Fairgrounds. There will be crafts and activities for all to enjoy. Click here for everything you need to know.
Huron County
- The City of Norwalk is “solar-brating” the eclipse with a kid-friendly viewing party that will have food trucks, a telescope, entertainment and free solar eclipse glasses. Click here for more details. There will also be a weekend-long celebration at the Huron County Fairgrounds From April 5-8.
Lake County
- The Lake County Captain is hosting a Total Eclipse Weekend with events from April 5-8. Click here for more details.
- According to Lake County, it will have several prime viewing areas in the center line of the eclipse.
- Celebrate the eclipse at the Holden Arboretum from 11 a.m. – 5 p.m. on April 8. There will be food trucks, activities and more! Click here for more details.
- The Village of Fairport Harbor is holding a viewing parting on Lighthouse Hill from 1-5 p.m. on April 8. There will be music and food trucks. Click here for more details.
See the 2024 eclipse from these Ohio State Parks

Lorain County
- City of Avon Lake Mayor Spaetzel highlighted two events in particular: An all-day festival for Eclipse Eve on April 7 and a view party hosted at Avon Lake High School’s Memorial Stadium.
- The Lake Erie Crushers and Fusion. Marketing Group are celebrating the eclipse on April 8 from 11:30 a.m. – 4:30 p.m. with Lights Out in The Land at Crushers Stadium in Avon. There will be a watch party, live music, vendors and activities for kids. Click here for more details.
Medina County
- Hoppy Dude Brews in Hinckley is hosting a viewing party from 12-6 p.m. on April 8. There will be free glasses with the purchase of a beer. Click here for more details.
Portage County
- The Streetsboro “Total Eclipse of the Park” will be held on April 8 from 11 a.m. – 4 p.m. There will be entertainment, food trucks and viewing glasses available. Click here for more details.
- According to the City of Kent, there will be a laser light show at the Hometown Bank Plaza at 8 p.m. on April 7. At the event, there will be food trucks and adult beverages.
- On April 8, A total solar eclipse viewing party will be held at Kent State University from 2:45-3:45 p.m. at Risman Plaza. Click here for more details.
Stark County
- Watch the solar eclipse at the MAPS Air Museum on April 8 at 2 p.m.! A $40 admission per car includes a guaranteed parking spot with an unobstructed view, two pairs of eclipse-safe glasses and access to the museum from 9 a.m. – 4:30 p.m. Click here for tickets.
Summit County
- The First Congregational Church of Hudson is holding an “Eclipse Experience” on Sunday, April 7. The family friend event will have celestial-themed games, crafts and food. Eclipse viewing glasses will also be available. At 12:30 p.m., a guest speaker will also give a presentation about the eclipse, which will take place on April 8. Click here for more information.
- The City of Akron is holding a Solar Eclipse Party from 1 p.m. – 4 p.m. on April 8. There will be activities, hosted by the Cascade Locks Park Association Team, as well as free eclipse glasses while supplies last. One lucky couple will also be getting married on the day of the solar eclipse at 1 p.m. If you would like to be that lucky couple, the deadline to submit an entry is Tuesday, March 5.
- The Akron Art Museum is hosting an event on April 8 where guests can view solar-related art and participate in art activities with music and other pop-ups. Refreshments and cocktails will also be available. The event takes from 11 a.m. through 5 p.m. Click here for more details.
- The Akron Zoo is celebrating the total eclipse on Monday, April 8 with Total Eclipse of the Zoo from 11 a.m. – 5 p.m. Presale tickets are on sale now. Click here for more details.
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Celeste Houmard

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February 26, 2024
Simons Foundation Funds More Than 100 Events for April Solar Eclipse

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The foundation’s In the Path of Totality initiative is partnering with dozens of communities to make the upcoming eclipse an engaging and unforgettable experience.

NEW YORK, February 7, 2024 (Newswire.com)
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On April 8, 2024, tens of millions of Americans will share one of the universe’s most spectacular events: a total eclipse of the sun by the moon. As the moon’s shadow crosses the United States from Texas to Maine, the Simons Foundation and its partners will offer opportunities for everyone along that path to engage with the spectacle and science of the eclipse.

The foundation’s new In the Path of Totality initiative is providing capacity-building support to dozens of science museums, cultural centers, main street festivals, rural engagement hubs and other organizations along the eclipse’s path. While all 50 states will experience a partial eclipse, only the 115-mile-wide path of totality will see the moon completely block the sun.

The initiative is particularly focused on people and communities within that path that have fewer science engagement opportunities. The foundation views the eclipse as a national moment in which to foster lasting relationships with science and celebrate science’s power to connect people, regardless of their geographic location.

Depending on the event, eclipse watchers might peer through solar telescopes, experience eclipse-inspired art, listen to live music, chat with scientists or sip eclipse-themed craft beers at the local brewery. The Simons Foundation aims to engage hundreds of thousands of people with its eclipse content and programming and will hand out 80,000 pairs of eclipse glasses to event attendees nationwide.

“By increasing access to science, we improve science as a whole,” says Simons Foundation president David Spergel. “Good science requires a diversity of perspectives and opinions, so it’s imperative that we engage as many people as we can. In the Path of Totality is putting into practice our belief that science can and should be for everyone.”

Eclipse-goers can learn more about the events and partnerships on the In the Path of Totality website, which details the plans across Texas, Oklahoma, Arkansas, Missouri, Illinois, Kentucky, Indiana, Ohio, Pennsylvania, New York, Vermont, New Hampshire and Maine.

The initiative is part of the Simons Foundation’s continued commitment to advancing basic science through grant funding, research support and public engagement. The upcoming total solar eclipse — the last in the contiguous United States until 2044 — presents a unique opportunity to strengthen people’s relationship with science, says Ivvet Modinou, vice president of the foundation’s Science, Society & Culture division.

“This eclipse is an opportunity for us to build partnerships in new geographical regions and support organizations who see the value of engaging their community with science,” she says. “Our hope is that this leads to lasting relationships and more on-ramps for people, regardless of location, to forge relationships with science.”

The Simons Foundation will host the initiative’s flagship event on the day of the eclipse in Austin, Texas, as well as two days of additional programming there. The three-day celebration will include scientists, artists, musicians, food and drink partners, activities, and plenty of opportunities for attendees to mingle and connect.

Along the path of totality, the Simons Foundation is supporting artworks showcasing the eclipse’s power to capture our imagination. The foundation’s newly launched Triangle Program is supporting seven collaborations of artists, scientists and local producing partners to create new eclipse-inspired art pieces spanning performance, sound, experimental photography, public sculpture, theater and multimedia installation. One of the first art pieces, “Passing Into Shadow,” is already wowing visitors at Artspace 304 in Carbondale, Illinois.

Accessible collaborations like these can offer new ways for people to connect with science locally. While some of the foundation’s eclipse partners are science-focused, many others are community-led, such as main streets, festivals, and art and cultural centers. Through a partnership with Main Street America, In the Path of Totality will support 15 historic downtowns and commercial districts in hosting eclipse events for residents. The foundation is even teaming up with 13 craft breweries to offer eclipse-themed beers. The nonmonetary brewery partnerships will heighten excitement in the run-up to the big event and connect people with the eclipse in new ways.

As part of its goal to make sure everyone can enjoy the eclipse, the Simons Foundation is supporting the Harvard-based LightSound Project. The LightSound team is building special devices that transform the dimming of the sun’s light into a musical tone for people with blindness or low vision. The team aims to have 750 such devices available during the eclipse.

The foundation is also working with science-focused organizations that already engage with communities along the eclipse’s path. Through a partnership with the Association of Science and Technology Centers, the foundation is supporting more than 50 institutions in developing eclipse events and related programming. The foundation’s funding of these and other science centers and museums will ensure that even more people can benefit from each museum’s offerings.

In addition to large U.S. cities such as Dallas and Indianapolis, the April eclipse will pass through hundreds of rural towns and communities. The foundation is collaborating with organizations such as the Arkansas Regional Innovation Hub and the Indiana University Center for Rural Engagement to craft bespoke science engagement opportunities for communities outside metropolitan areas. The foundation is also supporting the Little Free Library organization in building 25 new library boxes stocked with science books in towns along the eclipse’s path.

The Simons Foundation is also working with existing partners supported through its Science Sandbox initiative. The organizations are receiving additional funding to reach communities in the path of totality through eclipse-related live events, youth programming and more.

The foundation is offering ways for people to engage with the eclipse in its hometown of New York City as well, both in the weeks before and on the day of the big event. While the eclipse won’t reach totality in the city (capping out at around 90 percent), New Yorkers will still be in for a treat: The foundation and its partners will host dance performances, scientific presentations and other events before and during the eclipse. These include weekly solar viewings in Madison Square Park every Wednesday, culminating in an eclipse party in the park on April 8.

As the moon’s shadow finishes crossing the United States on April 8, the memories and connections the eclipse sparks won’t fade away. The Simons Foundation plans to continue to strengthen its connections with its partners, with the goal of providing more opportunities for people to engage with math and science in the coming years, Modinou says.

“This is just the beginning,” she says. “We’re excited to find more opportunities to work with these organizations and to continue to use science as a vehicle to bring people together.”

Images and videos related to the In the Path of Totality initiative are available on Google Drive. For more information, including to arrange interviews, please contact Stacey Greenebaum at press@simonsfoundation.org.

Source: Simons Foundation

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February 7, 2024