The Arizona Science Center, with support from the Richard F. Caris Charitable Trust, is hosting a Solar Eclipse Viewing Party on Monday, April 8, from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. Watch one of the rarest astronomical events unfold before your eyes, witnessing the moon cross perfectly between the Earth and sun, then learn about the science behind his phenomenon.
The Arizona Science Center will have solar telescopes, hands-on activities exploring solar and eclipse science, local experts and more, free to the public at their viewing party. They will also provide free eclipse glasses to each guest, ensuring everyone’s safety during the once-in-a-lifetime event.
An eclipse occurs when the moon passes between the Earth and the sun, partially or fully blocking the view of the sun. A total solar eclipse is when the moon completely covers the sun’s disk, causing the sky to briefly darken and the temperature to possibly drop. The moon turns a color resembling red, which is sometimes called a blood moon. Total eclipses are extremely rare events, making North America’s eclipse on April 8, 2024, a monumental day for astronomy lovers.
This solar eclipse is set to be a major event for more reasons than one. The totality, or duration, of the eclipse is expected to be expansive. Two planets will be visible, Venus and Jupiter, and are expected to appear during the eclipse. The city of Phoenix will experience 64% coverage of the sun at exactly 11:20 a.m.
Although this is a major astronomical and historical event, all viewers of the eclipse must practice safe viewing through solar-filtered glasses. Glasses must be worn when using cameras, telescopes and binoculars, or the solar filter should be placed on their lenses.
On Monday, April 8, the Arizona Science Center will begin its viewing party at 9 a.m., giving guests an ample amount of time to file in and prepare for what is to come. The eclipse is set to begin at 10:08 a.m., and the Science Center’s doors will open at 10:30 a.m. At 11:20 a.m. the eclipse will be at maximum coverage, a sight that all should safely see. At 12:35 p.m. the eclipse will end, and at 1 p.m. the viewing party will come to a close.
Members of the Arizona Science Center can enjoy morning treats and a relaxing space during the Viewing Party at the members-only lounge. To learn more about the Arizona Science Center’s viewing party, visit here. The Science Center’s site also offers more information regarding the eclipse including history, science and safety protocols.
