A free, public solar eclipse viewing event will be held from 9:45 a.m. to 1 p.m. Monday, April 8, at the Downing Planetarium at Fresno State.
The partial solar eclipse will begin at 10:12 a.m., will reach its maximum at 11:15 a.m. and will end at 12:21 p.m.
The Physics Department will set up solar telescopes for public use in order to safely view the eclipse. Solar eclipse glasses will be available to purchase for $5 each at the planetarium (5320 N. Maple Ave., on the northeast corner of Maple and San Ramon avenues, south of Barstow Avenue).
“It is not recommended to view a partial eclipse, even for an instant, without proper eye protection,” said Dr. Steven White, Fresno State physics professor and director of the Downing Planetarium. White explained that during the solar eclipse, the moon will pass in front of and partially block the sun. The maximum for this eclipse, viewed from Fresno, will be 50.9% coverage.
A free planetarium program also will be available for viewing inside the 72-seat star theater during the celestial event. The program, “Lights Out! Eclipses: Whys, Wonders and Wows” will examine the cause of eclipses and their importance throughout history. It will run at 11:30 a.m. and 12:15 p.m.
Parking permits are required to park on campus. Day passes can be purchased for $5 at permit machines located on Barstow, Woodrow and San Ramon avenues.
For more information, visit www.downing-planetarium.org.
