Super Solar Eclipse Viewing Party

The HRM opens its doors from 2–5pm with fun and educational activities inspired by today’s once-in-a-lifetime Total Solar Eclipse. A total solar eclipse happens when the Moon passes between the Sun and Earth, completely blocking the face of the Sun. The sky will darken as if it were dawn or dusk. In our region, the eclipse starts at 2:30pm, approaches 91% totality at 3:25pm, and ends at 4:36pm. The next total eclipse that can be seen from our region will be in 2079!

Eclipse Viewing in the Courtyard
View the eclipse’s progress with safe tools, including two solar telescopes that reveal incredible details of the Moon’s jagged silhouette and sunspots on the face of the Sun. While you wait your turn at the solar telescopes, observe the eclipse with pinhole viewers, mirror projections, exclusive HRM eclipse glasses (while supplies last), and other safe methods. Recommended for ages 8+. Please note, the Museum is not responsible for the cancellation of outdoor activities that are dependent on the weather; all general admission ticket sales are final.

Eclipse Live Stream in the Lobby
Watch the eclipse live stream from locations along its path over North America, including museums, schools, and observatories, from Texas to Maine. Feeds will be displayed on the video monitor in the HRM Lobby, accompanied by a space-themed soundtrack.

Open-Door Eclipse Presentation in the Planetarium
Stop by the Planetarium for an ongoing, open-door presentation on the unique nature and history of Earth’s eclipses, and why they have been so avidly watched by astronomers. We’ll use the Planetarium’s digital projection system to fly out into space and get an astronaut’s-eye-view of the event as it happens.

Capture the Moment in Greene Education Center
Pose for a photo-op in front of a solar eclipse—no special glasses required!—and take a picture you’ll treasure forever (or at least until the next eclipse in 2079)!

This event is part of #HRMEclipse.

Photo: Camille Knop