Spectators at JPL watch the solar eclipse on Aug. 21, 2017 (File Photo – Josh Krohn, NASA)
On April 8, 2024 at 10:06 am PDST the public will be treated to the first total solar eclipse to be visible in the entire US in 47 years.
By Briony James
Although the main path of totality of this eclipse will not bring Southern California in range, we will be seeing a partial eclipse.
This is a major astronomical event that occurs when the moon directly blocks the sun, casting a shadow on the earth in a limited path. In ancient times, eclipses were considered dangerous and a warning of upheaval and change. This eclipse is a warning more of parties! Along the band of totality that reaches from northern Mexico across the US eastward through the Midwest to Newfoundland’s Atlantic coast, the eclipse will be visible from nearly all of North America. It is generating huge interest, and eclipse parties and music festivals are planned from Hawaii and Texas to Indiana.
One in four Americans are planning to travel to witness this event, the first total solar eclipse since 2017; we will not see another in North America until August of 2044. The eclipse will last just over 2 hours and will reach its maximum at 11:12 am. Be sure to get yourself an approved pair of eclipse glasses or create a pinhole camera with two pieces of paper: it is dangerous to look directly with the naked eye. Be safe and be amazed at this wonder of nature!
Where to view the eclipse
Here in Pasadena, we will see it as a partial solar eclipse, where the shadow of the moon will cover part of the Sun over the course of 2 hours:
PUSD’s Center for Independent Study (CIS Academy) and Pasadena Adult Living Skills (PALS) program will host a viewing event from 10:00 am to noon at their location at the former Wilson Middle Campus. Warren Skidmore, founder of PUSD’s annual ScienceFest and a scientist with the Thirty Meter Telescope project, will explain what is happening to the assembled students.
Solar Eclipse Viewing Party at Wilson Campus Monday, April 8 10:00 am - 12:00 pm Location Wilson Middle Campus 300 S Madre St. Pasadena, CA 91107
At Caltech, astronomers and volunteers will be present to guide you through the eclipse and answer questions about the Sun, eclipse, and astronomy. This is a free event open to everyone. No reservations are needed. Stay only as long as you want.
Solar Eclipse Viewing Party at Caltech Monday, April 8 10:00 am Location 1216 E California Blvd. Pasadena, CA 91125
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