As the much-anticipated total solar eclipse on April 8 approaches, it is important to carefully check the location of any eclipse-observing event planned, as many organizers have not accurately stated whether their event will be within the path of totality. While a total solar eclipse offers a unique and spellbinding experience, it can only be fully appreciated from within the 115-mile wide path of totality that will touch parts of 15 U.S. states.
Many events are promoting terms like “partial totality” or “99% total eclipse,” which can be misleading for attendees who may not be in the path of totality. One example is the Center for Science and Industry in Columbus, Ohio, which recently updated its website to clarify that its event will only feature a partial solar eclipse. Attendees are urged to seek out locations within the path of totality to experience the full effect of the eclipse.
Similarly, events in cities like Fort Wayne, Indiana, Cincinnati, Ohio, San Antonio, Texas, and Ithaca, New York are advertising eclipse experiences that fall short of a total solar eclipse. Attendees are advised to travel to nearby locations within the path of totality for a more fulfilling viewing experience. Misleading events like those at Science Central and Hotel Ithaca could leave attendees disappointed if they are not fully informed about the eclipse’s path.
In some cases, cities like San Antonio and Ithaca are divided by the edge of the path of totality, with only certain areas experiencing total darkness. Event organizers are encouraged to provide accurate information about their event’s location and the level of eclipse visibility. Locations near the path of totality, such as the Hill Country in San Antonio and nearby towns like Seneca Falls and Rochester in New York, offer better viewing opportunities.
Organizers of events like the Eclipse at the Inn observing event at Fogo Island Inn in Newfoundland, Canada, are promoting a 99% partial solar eclipse, which may not provide the full spectacle of a total solar eclipse. Visitors are encouraged to travel to areas like Cape Freels or Gander on the mainland for a more immersive eclipse experience. Locations like Seminole Canyon State Park in Texas are also offering partial eclipse views, prompting attendees to seek out areas with better visibility.
Avoid events like the Total Eclipse Party at Edgewater Sport Park in Cincinnati or Six Flags Fiesta Texas in San Antonio, which offer partial eclipse views and distractions like drone displays and fireworks that may interfere with the eclipse experience. Instead, attendees are urged to visit locations within the path of totality, such as Dublin and Marion in Ohio, Wapakoneta in Indiana, or Bandera in Texas, to fully appreciate the awe-inspiring phenomenon of a total solar eclipse.
