OUC hosting eclipse viewing Monday on the lawn

Shelby Reeves, Chillicothe Gazette
Updated ·2 min read

CHILLICOTHE — On April 8 many people in Ohio will be able to experience a total solar eclipse. While Chillicothe isn't in the path of totality there are still many people excited for the big day.

Here are some solar eclipse-related events going on in the community:

Ohio University Chillicothe viewing

Ohio University Chillicothe will host eclipse viewing and educational programming on April 8 on the lawn between Bennett Hall and Shoemaker Center from 2 to 4 p.m. Although Chillicothe is not in the path of totality, it is close. Solar viewing glasses will be available while supplies last.

OHIO Chillicothe faculty will share demonstrations of solar telescopes, pinhole cameras and descriptions of the science behind the eclipse as well as related astronomy topics. Attendees are encouraged to bring their own lawn chairs or blankets for the outdoor event. In case of cloudy or rainy weather, the event will move to the Bennett Hall Auditorium.

Areas in Ohio that are outside the path of totality will experience a partial eclipse. A total solar eclipse is a rare and spectacular event. On average, one happens somewhere on the Earth only once every 1.5 years. Only 21 total solar eclipses have crossed the lower 48 states during the existence of the United States.

The last total solar eclipse visible in Ohio was in 1806. The next total solar eclipse in Ohio will be in the year 2099.

“This is an incredible opportunity to witness and learn from a rare and spectacular celestial event,” said Michael Koop, associate professor of astronomy and physics and Ohio University Chillicothe. “We welcome community members to join our faculty, staff and students for demonstrations and eclipse viewing on campus on April 8.”

Please RSVP if you plan to attend the eclipse viewing at OHIO Chillicothe.

Chillicothe & Ross County Public Library

The library will be closed on April 8 for the eclipse but a limited number of viewing glasses are available prior to the eclipse at all library locations. Patrons are limited to obtaining glasses for their household only.

This article originally appeared on Chillicothe Gazette: Still haven't made plans for solar eclipse? Stay local with viewing at OUC