Don’t miss your chance to view the solar eclipse on April 8, 2024— it will be the last one visible in the U.S. until 2044!
A solar eclipse represents an intricate dance between the sun, moon, and Earth. The study of solar eclipses has also had a profound impact on scientific discoveries and our understanding of the universe. The sun will reach 90 percent totality in Milwaukee on April 8. On that day, the moon will block 90 percent of the sun as the it passes between the sun and the Earth, and the three align perfectly. Other lucky locations in the U.S. will achieve 100 percent totality, making them popular destinations for travelers.
The UWM Planetarium and other campus collaborators are hosting a Solar Eclipse Viewing Party on Monday, April 8 from 1-3 p.m. Stop by the UWM Union Ballroom and Spaights Plaza to enjoy food, music, crafts, and of course, viewing the solar eclipse.
Students, employees, and members of the public are invited to stop by between classes or meetings, or make a whole day out of it. This is a rain or shine event!
· Pick up a free pair of eclipse glasses to safely view the solar eclipse
· Enjoy free pizza, cookies, and beverages
· Weather permitting, view the eclipse through eclipse glasses and telescopes outside
· Watch a live stream of the total eclipse
· Take a photo in the Planetarium’s photo station or with Pounce
· Get your craft on: Decorate your eclipse glasses and make galaxy slime with the Studio Arts & Crafts Center
· Learn how to cross stitch a space-themed pattern with the Women’s Resource Center
· Make a mindfulness jar with the Student Health and Wellness Center
The UWM College of Letters and Science generously provided the funding to purchase 10,000 solar eclipse glasses, which have been handed out at the Planetarium and other venues for people to safely see the eclipse wherever they are. Those planning to travel out of town for the eclipse (or perhaps unable to join the Planetarium on the day of the eclipse) can grab a free pair of eclipse glasses at the planetarium show “Prepare for the Solar Eclipse” on Friday, April 5 from 7 – 8 pm. Guided by Planetarium director Jean Creighton, this show dives into the basics of how eclipses work and what we learn from them. For more info about the Solar Eclipse Viewing Party visit the Planetarium’s website.
By the UWM Planetarium