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Solar Eclipse

Upcoming Events

Eclipsed in Fun!

April 8 from noon to 4 p.m. at KHCPL South

It’s not just an eclipse, it’s a party! Join us for an afternoon celebrating one of the most awe-inspiring spectacles in all of nature! We will have activities for all ages. Totality, the period of time when the sun is completely shadowed by the moon, will begin at approximately 3:08 PM.

Q&A

The Kokomo-Howard County Public Library is preparing for the 2024 solar eclipse, which will take place on April 8, 2024. As the date of the eclipse approaches, we have answers to some commonly asked questions below. KHCPL plans to host programs relating to the eclipse. Be sure to stay tuned on our website for more information as we get closer to April 8, 2024.

Q: When will eclipse glasses be available?

A: We plan to have glasses available at KHCPL South the day of the eclipse, April 8, 2024. Glasses will also be available at all eclipse-related programs. You may find eclipse glasses and solar viewers online. NASA has released a list of products and vendors, though NASA does not endorse or approve any products. Find their list here: https://eclipse.aas.org/resources/solar-filters

Q: When and how should I wear eclipse glasses?

A: According to NASA, viewing the Sun without special-purpose eclipse glasses will instantly cause eye injury. Eclipse glasses are necessary to safely view the eclipse. These are not the same as regular sunglasses, which are not safe for viewing the sun. Eclipse glasses should be secured over your eyes and should not be used if they are torn, scratched or otherwise damaged.

Q: Do I need to wear eclipse glasses while driving during the eclipse?

A: No. Eclipse glasses only need to be worn when looking directly at the eclipse. Regular activities that do not involve looking at the Sun will not require eclipse glasses.

Q: What if I don’t have a pair of eclipse glasses?

A: The effects of the solar eclipse can be seen in indirect ways that do not involve looking directly at the Sun. Click here for a list of ways to view the eclipse indirectly: https://eclipse.aas.org/eye-safety/projection.

Q: Can I use eclipse glasses with a camera, binoculars or telescopes?

A: According to NASA, “do not use eclipse glasses with cameras, binoculars or telescopes. These require different types of solar filters.” It’s best to seek advice from experts before using a solar filter with these items or other optical devices. According to NASA, it’s still important to wear sunscreen, a hat and protective clothing to protect skin during the eclipse and prevent damage from the Sun. You can find more information on NASA’s website: https://science.nasa.gov/eclipses/future-eclipses/eclipse-2024/safety/

Become a citizen scientist!

Join a global community of citizen scientists making a difference in our understanding of space. Download the GLOBE Observer app to make environmental observations that complement NASA satellite observations to help scientists studying Earth and the global environment.

Use the GLOBE Observer app to:

  • Document clouds as the eclipse progresses
  • Report the land cover and surface conditions at your observation site
  • Record changing air temperature with a simple meteorological thermometer
  • Photograph a wind flag to show changes in wind

Join us at 6 p.m. on March 14 for hands-on training at KHCPL South.

For more information please visit: https://observer.globe.gov/about/get-the-app

Learn More About Eclipses

Learn more about solar eclipses with these great books and videos available with your library card.

a series of 9 books in a grid pattern all featuring an eclipse theme