Where to watch the solar eclipse in Kansas

Matthew Self
·3 min read

TOPEKA (KSNT) – Ready or not, a solar eclipse is approaching Kansas.

Monday, April 8 will mark the last time a total solar eclipse will be seen above the continental U.S. for the next two decades. As such, it is the last opportunity for many to catch a glimpse of the impressive event before its long hiatus from North America.

Kansans will be unable to see the entirety of the eclipse on the day it occurs, according to NASA. This has prompted some living in the Sunflower State to make plans for road trips to states like Texas, Arkansas and others to get the full experience. Others are holding eclipse classes in the days leading up to the event to prepare people for what’s coming.

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Those unable to get out of state can still make the best of the opportunity to watch the eclipse by heading to a local watch party. Many are being announced for locations across the state at universities and astronomy centers which offer safe opportunities to watch the event.

Topeka

  • What: Watch the eclipse this local senior center where drinks, snacks and glasses will be provided. People are encouraged to RSVP through Facebook for this event.

  • When: Noon to 4 p.m.

  • Where: Papan’s Landing Senior Center at 619 NW Paramore Street

Louisburg

  • What: You can experience the eclipse from this Kansas observatory in the Kansas City area. Guests can expect to see upwards of 91% of the eclipse from this vantage point.

  • When: Noon to 2 p.m.

  • Where: The Powell Observatory at 26500 Melrose Street

Manhattan

  • What: You’ll find plenty of astronomy-themed activities to do on the day of the eclipse at the Flint Hills Discovery Center. Up to 85% of the eclipse can be seen from this location. You also have the opportunity to watch the eclipse through a sun spotter at this event.

  • When: 10 a.m. to 5 p.m.

  • Where: Flint Hills Discovery Center’s Blue Earth Plaza

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Lawrence

  • What: People are being invited to watch the eclipse alongside astronomers from the University of Kansas. Free eclipse glasses will be handed out on location.

  • When: Noon to 3:30 p.m.

  • Where: Marching band practice tarmac west of the Dole Institute.

Great Bend

  • What: A Solar Eclipse Viewing Party is being hosted by Fort Hays State University in Great Bend. A total of 300 eclipse glasses will be handed out to participants on the day of the event. Guests can expect to see around 82% of the eclipse. People can also find food, learn about the eclipse and get collector’s items to remember the event.

  • When: Noon to 3 p.m.

  • Where: Kansas Wetlands Education Center, 10 miles northeast of Great Bend at 592 NE K-156 Highway.

Wichita

  • What: Enjoy watching the eclipse in Wichita with an afternoon of activities. Admission is $5 per person which includes glasses alongside participation in educational activities for all ages.

  • When: Noon to 2:30 p.m.

  • Where: Kansas Aviation Museum at 3350 S. George Washington Road.

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Hutchinson

  • What: Guests of the Cosmosphere can safely view the eclipse and enjoy some fun activities and food trucks. People can use several safe methods on site to watch the eclipse as it happens. You are encouraged to bring a lawn chair to this event.

  • When: Noon to 3 p.m.

  • Where: Cosmosphere at 1100 N. Plum Street

Know of an eclipse watch party but don’t see it on our list? Send us an email through our Share It! link.

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