On Monday, August 21st,  there will be a solar eclipse of the sun!  This is one of nature’s most awe inspiring sights and the last time the US saw a total eclipse was in 1979.

A solar eclipse is an events when the moon passes between the sun and Earth and blocks all or part of the sun for up to about three hours. 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 eclipse will begin to be visible in Richmond at 1:17pm. By 2:45 p.m., almost 86 percent of the sun will be blocked. Things will return to normal by 4:05 p.m. To avoid eye damage, eclipse viewing glasses should be worn while viewing the eclipse.

The NASA website offers an amazing ‘Eclipse: Who? What? Where? When? and How?‘ resource to give families all the information needed to view this celestial event.

What’s Happening Locally?

Thanks to the NASA @ My Library program, Henrico Libraries across the county will offer free Eclipse viewing safety glasses on August 21, the date of a major Solar Eclipse, at 2pm while supplies last.  On August 21 from 2-3:30pm, Glen Allen, Libbie Mill, North Park, Twin Hickory, and Varina Libraries will host Eclipse Parties where Henrico residents of all ages can learn about the science behind eclipses, and pick up a pair of glasses to safely view the eclipse while supplies last, courtesy of NASA @ My Library.  Limited quantities of these safety glasses will be available to the public at all HCPL locations, and distribution may be restricted to one pair of glasses per family if demand is overwhelming.

The Science Museum of Virginia will be having s viewing party on the front lawn to celebrate the wonder of a solar eclipse. This event is Noon to 4pm.  The first 500 guests will receive free eclipse viewing glasses with Museum admission.  There will be sun and moon themed activities outside and in the Dome theater.  Local food trucks will also be onsite.

Lewis Ginter Botanical Garden is celebrating with a Solar Eclipse Viewing Party & Sun Celebration from 1-3pm.  Participate in sun-themed activities throughout the afternoon while safely enjoying this amazing astronomical event!  They will have certified, for safe viewing, glasses for the first 500 guests. Free with garden admission.