Monday, April 8, a total solar eclipse will cause mid-day darkness as the moon travels over the surface of the sun, casting a shadow below.
Beginning in Mexico, then entering the United States through Texas and ultimately ending in eastern Canada, this phenomenon has people atwitter. While a total solar eclipse happens about twice a year, it’s rare to be in the path of totality (in line with the moon’s covering of the sun) when it happens. This month, it just so happens to be coming through our home state.
Area schools are planning fun activities to engage children in the science and wonder of the event. At Hayes Primary School, second graders will go outside with provided viewers to see the eclipse on Monday. Pre-k through first graders will have alternate activities inside the building to be part of the day.
“All classes are doing a variety of activities to learn about the eclipse,” Principal James Worley said.
At the Intermediate School, third through fifth graders will also watch the eclipse through special glasses. Friday, all science classes at Whitesboro Middle School will have a refresher lesson on the science behind the eclipse.
“We have viewing glasses for all students and staff to view the eclipse and are hoping the weather cooperates,” Principal Shannon Scoggins said. “We are excited for our kids to experience the science they learn in the classroom.”
Whitesboro High School students will have opportunities to view the eclipse either in its entirety or in stages. Each teacher has access to safety information and lessons and will be doing individualized activities with their classes.
“We are looking forward (weather permitting) to a once-in-a-lifetime view for our students,” Principal Marlene Robinson said. “We received eclipse viewing glasses for the entire campus through donations so every student and teacher will have their own pair. Parent permission slips were sent home with students earlier this week.”
Although not completely in the path of totality, Whitesboro and surrounding areas are expected to get a partial solar eclipse. First contact (the moment the moon first touches the sun’s edge) is scheduled to occur at 12:24 p.m. and the maximum eclipse should occur at 1:43 p.m. The darkness is expected only to last between one and four minutes, depending on location.
Many plan to travel to locations expected to see complete totality. TxDOT is already planning for heavy traffic and potentially dangerous road conditions. They recommend the following:
• Expect heavier-than-usual traffic in the days before, during and after the eclipse, especially on major corridors near the path of totality.
• Leave early and plan your route. Your drive may take longer than predicted. (Visit DriveTexas.org for up-to-date traffic conditions.)
• Find a safe, designated space to park before the eclipse. Do not stop in the middle of the road or on a road shoulder.
• “Drive friendly, the Texas way.” Bring a calm and courteous attitude on the road with you.
• Enjoy the wildflowers that will be in bloom, but don’t drive over or trample them.
• Dispose of all waste in a proper trash can.
Lastly, whether you watch the eclipse from your own back yard or you travel to another city for a better view, it’s important to wear appropriate safety glasses.
Despite the fact that most of the sun will be covered by the moon, there is still enough sunlight getting through that can permanently damage your eyes.
Find eclipse viewing glasses that meet the international safety standard ISO 12312-2.
Missed the boat on finding eclipse glasses? You can also use a pinhole viewer. This simple contraption made with paper, aluminum foil, and cardboard acts like a teeny camera lens and allows you to safely watch the eclipse.
For up-to-date information about the eclipse (like closest spot to view the totality, what percentage of the sun will be covered at your location, and when you can start looking for the eclipse), check out phone apps like Totality by Big Kid Science, My Eclipse, Solar Snap and the Great American Eclipse app.
For more resources and information regarding the total solar eclipse, visit https://www.txdot.gov/discover/texas-eclipse-2024.html
