The buzz about the upcoming solar eclipse on Monday, August 21, 2017 at 11:46 a.m., is a bit unavoidable, and some of you may be wondering what’s all the fuss about?
In order to bring you the important answer to that question, I interviewed universally renowned, half-trekkie, half-jedi Greg Andrews, Sci-Port’s current IMAX/Planetarium Manager. Andrews has been stargazing since he was just a wee padawan, obtained a BS in Physics from LSUS, and has worked with Sci-Port Discovery Center for over a decade. As a member of the Shreveport-Bossier Astronomical Society he leads both public and private stargazing events, and is on a special mission to promote astronomy and physics in the SBC.
Here are the “in the know” details you need to survive the impending solar eclipse:
What is a solar eclipse?
The Sun, the Moon, and Earth will get in a straight line with the Moon passing between the Sun and Earth, and momentarily blocking the sunlight from our view. Those in the “umbra zone” (like my cousin Elayne in Bend, OR) will experience a total eclipse, while, here in Shreveport, LA, we are in the “penumbra zone” and will see a only a partial eclipse of the sun, about 75% of the Sun will appear to be covered by the Moon.
As Andrews explains, “Essentially, the Moon blocks our view of the Sun in the same way your sibling can block your view of the TV. This sygyzy (i.e., alignment) is not rare. Eclipses routinely take place every 2-3 years. However, we don’t have the opportunity to see most of them because Earth is covered with 2/3 water, hence most eclipses occur over water.”
Why it’s a big deal?
Notably, it has been 38 years since a total solar eclipse (complete blackout) was visible from the continental U.S., and we won’t get another opportunity to see this until April 8, 2024. However, the good news is, according to Andrews, “the Arklatex region will be able to view 90-99% blockage of the Sun during the 2024 eclipse.”
On Monday, the viewing path of the total eclipse goes from the West coast to the East Coast, and that type of pathway has not occurred in almost a century. The next coast-to-coast eclipse will be in 2045. Andrews explains, “the huge gap in between these eclipses, alone, is enough, to me, to generate excitement. The experience of observing a total eclipse is also memorable. Viewers will literally see stars in the middle of the day during totality.”
You don’t need a telescope to view this celestial event, but you will need to protect your eyes from sun damage. The only true “safe” time to look directly at the sun with naked eyes is during the 2 minute window when the Moon totally blocks the Sun’s face. Here, in Shreveport-Bossier, we will only experience a partial eclipse, you will want to get some eclipse viewing glasses (NOT regular sunglasses). (See below for where to find some for FREE).
Another viewing tip: NASA and many astronomical societies have advanced technology to assist in preserving the solar eclipse for generations to come. With that said, my unsolicited advice is: put your iphone away, and enjoy the eclipse safely with your glasses on.
When do I start staring at the sun (with protection)?
On Monday August 21, 2017, the partial eclipse will become visible in Shreveport, LA at 11:46 a.m., with the height of the eclipse occurring at 1:17 p.m., and by 2:46 p.m. you can pack it up and go home. Another viewing tip from Andrews, “observe shadows. You’ll see that every shadow will have a different shape due to the partial eclipse.”
Where do I go to view this phenomenon?
If you have your own special eclipse glasses, you can view the eclipse from basically any location that has a view of the Sun. If you are feeling social, and need to pick up a pair of glasses to protect your eyes, several places around town are hosting viewing parties. (See below details on several eclipse watch parties). If you can’t make it outside, NASA will stream live video: nasa.gov/eclipselive. As for our Star expert, Andrews will be traveling to right outside of Kansas City to view the eclipse. From that strategic location he will see 100% sun blockage.
What if I want to learn more about the eclipse?
Check out Sci-Port’s Space Dome Planetarium programs. An interesting side fact I learned from Andrews during the interview: Sci-Port’s program “Birthday Skies” allows you and your friends to explore the constellations and the planets as seen at the time of a your birth. The experts at Sci-Port can even find out if a person was born the day of an eclipse. I know where my next birthday party will be!
You can also go to space.com for some excellent coverage generally on all things space related. Click on the Eclipse 2017 tab, top right corner, for special eclipse coverage. Again, nasa.gov is a great resource.
Keep your eyes on the skies for this one, but don’t stare at the sun too long. #Dreamport #Eclipse2017 H.
Solar Eclipse 2017 Watch Parties in SBC
The Remington Suite Hotel & Spa
220 Travis St., Downtown Shreveport
Take elevator to the 3rd floor rooftop
11 a.m. – 3 p.m.
FREE rooftop party for all ages with live music from Clayton Bloom. FREE eclipse glasses (while supplies last) and themed photo booth. For purchase: tacos from Taqueria La Michoacana and margaritas (for adults only).
Facebook event page: facebook.com/events/1822880388025197/
Twisted Root Burger Co.
8690 Line Ave., Shreveport
11:46 a.m. – 2:46 p.m.
FREE all ages party and eclipse glasses (while supplies last). Live coverage of other eclipse celebrations across the country on multiple television screens. Plus 2-for-1 special on all beers, wines, liquors and shakes!
Facebook event page: facebook.com/events/1016995441775663/
Sci-Port Discovery Center
820 Clyde Fant Parkway, Shreveport
Special Solar Eclipse Programing all week. Requires membership or admission cost.
See: sciport.org or Facebook event page: facebook.com/events/2014653008764077/
Shreve Memorial Library, Broadmoor Branch
1212 Captain Shreve Dr., Shreveport
1 p.m. – 2 p.m.
FREE eclipse viewing glasses
Facebook event page: facebook.com/events/1370877023008193/
Shreve Memorial Library, North Shreveport Branch
4844 North Market St., Shreveport
1 p.m. – 2 p.m.
FREE eclipse viewing glasses
Facebook event page: facebook.com/events/262839637546630/
Shreve Memorial Library, West Shreveport Branch
4380 Pines Road, Shreveport
1 p.m. – 2 p.m.
FREE eclipse viewing glasses
Facebook event page: facebook.com/events/372619173156450/
Shreveport Memorial Library,David Raines Branch
2855 Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. Dr., Shreveport
11:30 a.m. – 2 p.m.
FREE eclipse viewing glasses or watch NASA’s live stream via large screens.
Facebook event page: facebook.com/events/263748124113806/
Bossier Parish Library, Tooke Branch
451 Fairview Point Rd., Elm Grove
11 a.m.-5:30 p.m.
FREE eclipse viewing glasses and all ages activities, including: cookie decorating; a scavenger hunt; chalk art; and, making wind streamers, solar nature prints and UV bead bracelets. Snacks provided.
See: bossierlibrary.org or Facebook event page: facebook.com/events/158997671333918