FORT WAYNE, Ind. (WANE) — A spectacular astronomical event will take place this Saturday. An annular solar eclipse is scheduled to occur this weekend, and Science Central has the equipment you need to view it right here in Fort Wayne.
An annular solar eclipse occurs when the moon passes between the Earth and the sun. However, the moon is far from the earth, so it cannot cover the entire sun. Thus creating a “Ring of Fire” appearance where only the outer edge of the Sun is visible.
Although we won’t be able to see the full display of the “Ring of Fire,” we expect the difference in sunlight to be noticeable here, especially with the help of eclipse glasses. And with special lenses for Science Central’s telescopes, you can get an amazingly up-close look.
Science Central’s Steve Clark said the eclipse will begin around 11:41 a.m. Saturday. The peak of the eclipse is expected to occur just after 1 p.m., and the event is expected to end just before 2:30 p.m.
While the sun’s light is decreasing, Science Central is reminding guests to purchase eclipse glasses and not look directly at the sun to view the eclipse. Sunlight is still harmful to human eyes, and sunglasses cannot protect the eyes in this situation. Eclipse glasses are equipped with solar filtering lenses that allow you to see the sun.
Additionally, staff will launch high-altitude balloons that will rise to the stratosphere, allowing you to observe from an astronaut’s perspective. The balloon will film the eclipse, burst in the atmosphere, and then fall to the Earth’s surface, where the team can retrieve the footage. The balloon launch is scheduled for Saturday at 12:17 p.m.
Science Central will be selling eclipse glasses for $3.99 in the gift shop Wednesday through Saturday. No admission is required to shop there.
The quality of Eclipse glasses is limited, so please stop by as soon as possible.
Science Central opens at 10 a.m. Saturday morning.
