Mark your calendars for August 21. You won’t want to miss the total solar eclipse!
The last total solar eclipse that was visible in Oregon occurred in 1979, and there won’t be another visible until 2108! On August 21st, the path of totality, or the path the moon’s shadow travels across Earth, will touch Oregon first, fully eclipsing at 10:15 AM and passing over the state in approximately 10 minutes, ending in South Carolina.
Saturday Academy has classes designed to inspire students to explore our amazing universe!
In anticipation of the expected 1 million visitors the eclipse will bring to Oregon, Oregon State Parks is creating around 500 additional campsites near the path of totality that will soon be available to reserve, as most of the campsites in the path of totality are already booked. They also are looking for volunteers to help with the event.
OMSI, the Oregon Museum of Science and Industry, is also gearing up for the eclipse by hosting a solar eclipse viewing party at the Oregon State Fairgrounds in Salem, OR. The event is from 6 AM- 12 PM, and activities will include science lectures and entertainment.
Although a farther drive, Oregon Solarfest 2017 will be held in Madras, Oregon from August 18th-21st. Because Madras is in the center line of the path of totality, it is a premium spot to view the total solar eclipse. The festival will include camping, entertainment, food and beverages, as well as helicopter and hot air balloon ride tours for purchase. For those who are not a fan of traditional camping, the festival offers glamour camping (glamping) options as well. Eclipse experts and science enthusiasts alike will converge at this weekend long gathering to celebrate shared interests and watch the amazing view!
If you are intending to watch the solar eclipse, there is one important detail to keep in mind. Special glasses should always be worn when the solar eclipse is not at its total, or complete, phase, because the uncovered section of sun is extremely bright and any exposure may cause eye damage. Glasses can be purchased online for $10-$15 dollars; make sure to grab yours, find a nice spot, and enjoy the show!