A solar eclipse will darken the skies above Queens for a predicted four minutes and 27 seconds on Monday, April 8. Several borough entities are ready to enrich this rare and beautiful phenomenon with programs, parties, and safety protocol.
First, some preparation. Those who attend Eye on the Sky at King Manor Museum (150-03 Jamaica Ave.) will craft emergency viewers as looking directly at a solar eclipse without the proper eyewear can cause permanent eyesight damage. Set for April 6 at 1 pm, the free workshop also includes information on viewing tips and the history of solar eclipses.
New York Hall of Science will get into the action with a Solar Eclipse Party at its Festival Space in Flushing Meadows Corona Park on April 8 at 1 pm. The $10 event has some earthly star power with hands-on activities sponsored by NASA, vendors from the Queens Night Market, and music by award-winning DJ Annie Red.
Queens Public Library is giving away printed safety guidelines and free solar eclipse glasses – while supplies last – via a partnership with NASA. And branches will host watch parties, give away protection materials, and organize crafts workshops with space themes daily until April 8.
Click here for the full schedule. At least 10 branches – from Long Island City to Rockaway – are involved.
Just The Facts
A solar eclipse is when the moon passes between the sun and earth, blocking the sun’s rays from reaching earth. If everything goes well, the upcoming eclipse will start on Mexico’s Pacific Coast at 11:07 am — or 8:07 am Eastern Daylight Time — on April 8. The shadow will move across North America, passing over Queens from 3:16 pm to 3:29 pm, when 89 percent of the sun will be covered.
Safety First
Queens Library and NASA are also providing Eclipse Fact Sheets and Safety Guidelines.
Images: NASA