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Special Events for the Solar Eclipse

By Rachel Ives - Publisher, Macaroni Kid Bridgewater-Brockton August 3, 2017

While a total solar eclipse can happen every 1-2 years, it has not happened over the continental U.S. since February 26th 1979.

So…what is it? A solar eclipse occurs when the moon passes between Earth and the sun. A total solar eclipse occurs when the moon completely blocks the sun. The total solar eclipse can only be seen on the center line, the rest of us will see a partial eclipse. The Boston area is going to see about a 60% eclipse while Chicago will see about 85% and Nashville will see the full 100%, which is over 2 minutes of a total eclipse.

The next total solar eclipse that will occur over the continental U.S. will be on April 8th 2024 and after that it will be a 20-year wait until August 23rd, 2044.

Here are some local events going on relating to this month’s total solar eclipse! 

Thursday, August 10th – 7PM – 8PM
East Bridgewater Public Library
Solar Eclipse Special Event

Join Martina Arndt, Professor of Physics at Bridgewater State University, as she presents the history and science of solar eclipses, as well as tips on viewing the eclipse safely.
A simultaneous drop-in craft program for children will take place, and be repeated on the date of the eclipse. A free pair of eclipse viewing glasses will be available for all participants in either program!

Saturday, August 19th – 1PM – 2:30PM
Brockton Public Library
Solar Eclipse Program for Children

This program, led by NASA Solar System Ambassador Pat Monteith, will discuss what an eclipse is, how to safely view the eclipse, and will provide special protective glasses as long as they last.

Saturday, August 19th – 3PM – 4:30PM 
Brockton Public Library
Solar Eclipse Program for Teens & Adults

This program, led by NASA Solar System Ambassador Pat Monteith, will discuss what an eclipse is, how to safely view the eclipse, and will provide special protective glasses as long as they last.

Monday, August 21st – 9AM – 7PM
East Bridgewater Public Library
Solar Eclipse Craft

This is a repeat of the drop-in craft program that took place on Thursday evening, August 9th. A free pair of eclipse viewing glasses will be available for all participants!

Monday, August 21st – 10:30 AM – 11:30 AM
West Bridgewater Public Library
Solar Eclipse Story Time

Story Time / Craft based on today's Solar Eclipse!

Monday, August 21st – 1PM – 4PM
Bridgewater State University Observatory
Solar Eclipse Viewing

At BSU's Science and Mathematics Center, we will provide multiple ways for you to view the eclipse safely, including access to optical projection systems, solar telescopes with H-alpha or reflective filters, and free eclipse glasses and viewing screens while supplies last.  When you arrive, go to the lobby to pick up safety information and eclipse glasses/viewers first.  Then join us outside on the green or the 5th floor patios for viewing of the Sun.  Professor Doyle will give a talk on the Sun and eclipses in the auditorium from about 1 pm - 2 pm.  This event occurs rain or shine - if it's cloudy, we will stream the eclipse live in the auditorium for all to see.  If you plan to attend this event, please register!  This event is free and open to the public.

Monday, August 21st – 1:30 PM – 3PM
Middleboro Public Library
Solar Eclipse Viewing Party

1:30-2:30- Kids can come to the library to learn about the Sun, how a solar eclipse occurs, and create a sun cookie to eat! We will focus on safe viewing behavior before handing out special glasses and going out to see the eclipse during its peak.

2:30-3:00- Solar Eclipse Viewing: Meet us in the Large Meeting Room at 2:30pm for special instructions on safe viewing and grab a pair of special glasses made for this occasion. We will all go outside to view the solar eclipse during its peak. Light refreshments will be provided.

Remember, Safety First! Never look directly at the sun, even when it is blocked by the moon.



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