On Monday, August 21, 2017, the world will be treated to a solar eclipse! According to The National Aeronautics and Space Administration (NASA), a solar eclipse occurs when the moon passes between the sun and Earth and blocks all or part of the sun for up to about three hours, from beginning to end, as viewed from a given location. For this eclipse, the longest period when the moon completely blocks the sun from any given location along the path will be about two minutes and 40 seconds. The last total eclipse happened in in 1979.
Chicago will host a variety of activities and viewing parties Monday, and here are just a few ways to enjoy the solar eclipse locally:
Adler Planetarium: Adler is hosting a daylong block party that includes free admission to its exhibitions, including the planetarium’s new “Chasing Eclipses” exhibit that prepares visitors to experience an eclipse. Chicago’s Eclipse Fest runs from 9:30 a.m. to 6 p.m. on the Adler grounds and in the adjacent parking lot.
Chicago Park District: The Chicago Park District will be hosting 20 viewing parties across the city. Everyone is invited to see and experience this exciting celestial event with the use of special viewing glasses provided by the Adler Planetarium. Please note: viewing glasses will be distributed during the event at each park location hosting a viewing party, while supplies last.
Other watch parties are being hosted across the city and suburban areas during the day. For more information about them, check out Kristen Thometz’s post, “Solar Eclipse Chicago: 12 Watch Parties on Aug. 21” here.
This is a major event, so be prepared to get involved in the celebration! Below are some questions you might have before Monday:
What is a solar eclipse and why is this one so important?
What do I need to know about the solar eclipse?
Where can I get special viewing glasses in the Chicago area?
Enjoy!
