Skygazers are gearing up for an exciting astronomical rarity when the first total solar eclipse visible across the United States in decades occurs on Monday, Aug. 21.
The path of totality—when the moon passes between the sun and the Earth, temporarily turning day into night—will occur between Oregon and South Carolina. The last time that happened was 1918. The celestial show will appear as a partial solar eclipse on Long Island by mid-afternoon and will last about three hours from start to finish.
NASA has issued helpful tips on how the public can see the eclipse without causing eye damage. There are also a number of educational eclipse viewing events being held across LI that can be found here:
Eclipse Day at EMPL
An event filled day with an eclipse class, learning about constellations, eclipse crafts and learning about eclipses in literature will lead up the the viewing event. East Meadow Public Library. 1886 Front St., East Meadow. eventkeeper.com Free. 10 a.m.- 2 p.m. Aug.21.
The Great North American Eclipse-Solar Viewing and Activities
Viewers will be able to learn about the eclipse, make a pinhole camera to observe the eclipse and seal memories into a time capsule to be opened up in the next seven years, when the next New York eclipse occurs. Cradle of Aviation, Charles Lindbergh Blvd, Garden City. cradleofaviation.org Free with museum admission. 12-4 p.m. Aug. 21.
Solar Eclipse Observing Party
A Montauk astronomer will be showing the South Fork to safely view and learn about the eclipse. The South Fork Natural History Museum and Nature Center, 337 Bridgehampton-Sag Harbor Tpke., Bridgehampton. sofo.org Free. 1-4 p.m. Aug. 21.
Solar eclipse viewing
Astronomers from the Montauk Observatory will be fielding questions and operating a telescope that will allow you to safely view the eclipse. Shades available while supplies last. Parrish Art Museum, 279 Montauk Hwy., Water Mill. $12 for Adults, free for children under 18, students, and museum members. 1-4 p.m. Aug. 21.
Eclipse viewing reception
Astronomy experts will explain and analyze the eclipse for local residents, step-by-step, as the historic event takes place while spectators gather on an elevated solar viewing party deck. Hudson’s on the Mile Restaurant, Woodcleft Ave., Freeport. 1 p.m. Aug. 21.
Solar Eclipse Garden Viewing
Join the John Jermain Memorial Library for a viewing in the garden for all ages. Viewing glasses will be provided, and light refreshments will be served. John Jermain Memorial Library. 201 Main St., Sag Harbor. johnjermain.org Free. 1:15-4 p.m. Aug. 21.
2017 Celestial Event of the Century!
A view of the eclipse, safe viewing glasses, and engaging hands on activities will all be included at this event. Centereach Parking Lot, 101 Eastwood Blvd., Centereach. mcpac.mcpl.lib.ny.us Free. 1:15-3:45 p.m. Aug. 21.
Solar Eclipse Viewing Party
The Oceanside Library will be providing safe viewing options at the Schoolhouse Green. Fun and games will also be in store at this event. Schoolhouse Green, Foxhurst Road, Oceanside. eventkeeper.com Free. 1:30-3:30 p.m. Aug.21.
Become a citizen scientist
Families are invited to observe the eclipse and then help NASA researchers and EclipseMob.org collect data on the eclipse at Maritime Explorium Children’s Museum in Port Jefferson. Glasses are provided while still available. Check EclipseMob.org for detailed instructions on how to collect data. 101 E Broadway, Port Jefferson. Free. 1:30-3:30 p.m. Aug. 21.
