What is an annular solar eclipse?
A solar eclipse happens when the Moon passes between Earth and the Sun, casting a shadow on the planet. However, there are different types of solar eclipses. A total solar eclipse happens when the Moon completely blocks the face of the Sun. A partial solar eclipse happens when the Moon, Sun, and Earth are not perfectly aligned, causing only a part of the Sun to be covered and giving it a crescent shape. An annular solar eclipse happens when the Moon is at its farthest point from Earth, making it appear smaller than the Sun in our sky. This creates a ring effect around the Moon. The term "annular" refers to this ring effect!
What is going to happen?
The eclipse will begin at approximately 11:52 am, peak at 1:26 pm, and end at 3:02 pm giving viewers an adequate amount of time to see this celestial event as it happens. IT IS NEVER SAFE TO LOOK DIRECTLY AT THE SUN DURING A PARTIAL ECLIPSE WITHOUT SPECIALIZED EYE PROTECTION! This can cause severe retina damage. Our staff will be on hand to highlight how to correctly use solar eclipse glasses.
Programs will run from 11am to 3pm.
FAQS
Do I have to go to The Children’s Science Explorium to see the eclipse?
No, you don't. A solar eclipse is visible across a wide area that sweeps across the globe. You'll be able to see this eclipse anywhere in Florida, and the best view will be along the path of totality.
What is included in the viewing party?
Attendees will enjoy:
- An opportunity to purchase Solar Eclipse glasses for $2 per pair while supplies last
- Special outdoor programming themed around the eclipse
- A chance to safely view the eclipse through our 8” Celestron CPC Deluxe Telescope using a solar filter
- An opportunity to explore the newest traveling exhibition, Leonardo’s Lab
- Refreshments available for purchase from Kona Ice
When is the next eclipse?
The annular solar eclipse will take place on Saturday, October 14, 2023. The next solar eclipse is a total eclipse, happening on April 8, 2024 - though, similarly to October's annular eclipse, this will be visible as a partial eclipse in the Boca Raton area. After that, the next total solar eclipse that will be visible from the contiguous United States will be on August 23, 2044!
Is Boca Raton in the direct path of the eclipse?
No. The direct path of the eclipse will travel from Oregon to Texas. Viewers in Boca Raton will experience about a 60% eclipse, similar to what was visible during the 2017 solar eclipse.
What's the difference between a solar eclipse and a lunar eclipse?
During a solar eclipse, the Moon passes directly between the Earth and the Sun, blocking the sun's light and casting a shadow on Earth. During a lunar eclipse, the Earth passes directly between the Sun and the Moon, casting a shadow on the Moon and obscuring it.
Do I really need to wear eclipse glasses?
While a solar eclipse can be enjoyed safely with the right tools, viewers risk serious eye damage if they don't use the proper protection. Never look directly at an eclipse without some sort of approved protection.
Can I buy eclipse glasses from The Children’s Science Explorium?
Eclipse glasses are available for sale at the Willow Theatre box office for $2 per pair during event only and while supplies last.
What happens if the weather is bad?
Weather can be unpredictable, and there is always a chance that South Florida experiences an overcast, rainy day during the eclipse. At the first sign of inclement weather, all staff and patrons will be called back into the building.
How long will the eclipse last?
The eclipse will begin at 11:57 am and continue through 3:11 pm. The maximum coverage will occur at 1:33 pm.
In other words, the Moon will touch the Sun's edge at 11:57 am and will gradually move in front of the Sun until 1:33 pm, when it will be closest to the center of the Sun. Then it will continue its arc across the front of the Sun, with the edges parting at 3:11 pm! You can find an animation of what the eclipse will look like here.
Can I safely look at the eclipse through my cell phone?
If you set up your phone on a tripod or other stand and point it at the Sun, you can record a video of the eclipse without looking directly at it. However, it is not safe to look at the Sun while filming. So yes, you can film the eclipse on a phone camera, but it does not serve as proper protection for your eyes during the actual event.