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Celebrate April’s Solar Eclipse at The Schiele Museum
Solar Eclipse Weekend
April 6, 7, and 8
Saturday, April 6, 11:00 AM – 2:00 PM
Sunday, April 7, 1:00 PM – 4:00 PM
Monday, April 8, 12:00 PM – 4:00 PM
Visitors are invited to celebrate April’s solar eclipse with the astronomy experts at The Schiele Museum of Natural History. The museum will offer planetarium programs, hands-on activities, solar-safe viewing equipment, and fun for everyone on April 6, 7, and 8.
On April 8, 2024, a total solar eclipse will cross North America, passing over Mexico, the United States, and Canada. This rare phenomenon happens when the Moon moves between the Sun and Earth, completely blocking the face of the Sun. While other areas of the country are preparing for a total eclipse, the Charlotte metro area can expect 80% of the sun to be blocked by the moon. “Even though the moon will be covering more than ¾ of the sun, don't expect it to be dark,” says meteorologist Candice Jordan, Head of Education at The Schiele. “You’ll be able to see that something is different by looking at the shadows on the ground or by using eclipse viewing materials.”
Visitors can watch the eclipse at the museum on Monday, April 8 at 3:11 PM (weather permitting), but Solar Eclipse Weekend festivities start on Saturday, April 6, and continue through Monday, April 8 until the eclipse ends. A full schedule of planetarium shows will be available each day, including English and Spanish versions of “Totality”, a presentation that helps viewers understand the fascinating history of eclipses and practical tips for viewing. In addition, staff will provide hands-on astronomy activities, crafts for kids, and glimpses of the sun through sunspotters and pinhole projectors on Saturday from 11 AM – 2 PM, Sunday from 1 – 4 PM, and Monday from 12 – 4 PM. On Monday, April 8, visitors can also enjoy eclipse-inspired samples of Jeni’s Ice Cream while supplies last.
All who want to watch April’s eclipse – at the museum or at home – are strongly encouraged to protect their eyes from the sun. The Schiele is currently selling solar-safe eclipse viewing glasses at the admissions desk during open hours for $3 each. They will be available now and throughout Solar Eclipse Weekend.
Candice Jordan warns, “If you miss this eclipse, you’ll get another chance to see a somewhat wimpy partial eclipse in four years. The next total eclipse viewing opportunity for the Carolinas won’t happen until 2078!” For a planetarium show schedule and more information about Solar Eclipse Weekend, visit schielemuseum.org.
The Schiele Museum of Natural History inspires wonder, curiosity, and an appreciation of the natural world, providing the region with a unique educational resource. Visitors to The Schiele learn about the world around them through exceptional programming, fascinating exhibits, and ongoing research. To find out more, visit SchieleMuseum.org or follow The Schiele on social media.
