April 8, 2024
On Monday, April 8, 2024, people within a 124-mile-wide band in the state of Ohio will experience a total solar eclipse, and the Dayton area will have a front-row seat.
The eclipse begins at 1:53pm and will conclude at 4:25pm. However, the pinnacle of the eclipse will happen at 3:10pm when the moon fully covers the sun. It is only at this point that one can remove their eclipse glasses to view the sun’s corona.
Be sure to check out our section on Eclipse Safety to learn more about ways to safely view the eclipse.
Please note, Wright Library will be closed from 2:45 – 3:45 so that staff can enjoy the eclipse in Katharine Wright Park.
Except during the brief total phase of a total solar eclipse, when the Moon completely blocks the Sun’s bright face, it is not safe to look directly at the Sun without specialized eye protection for solar viewing.
Viewing any part of the bright Sun through a camera lens, binoculars, or a telescope without a special-purpose solar filter secured over the front of the optics will instantly cause severe eye injury.
Dayton's Channel 2 news warns: "When putting on a pair of eclipse glasses, if you see any form of light, it can be an indicator they are fake. Experts say eclipse glasses block out 99.99% of the sun’s light."
For more information, read this article from the American Astronomical Society: How Can You Tell If Your Eclipse Glasses or Handheld Solar Viewers are Safe? [AAS.org]
Check out these alternative ways to safely view the solar eclipse:
Thanks to a generous grant from The Gordon and Betty Moore Foundation and the Space Science Institute, Wright Library will be distributing free eclipse glasses at select eclipse-related programs while supplies last. See programs marked with 😎 under Eclipse-related Programs below.
Due to the anticipated demand for solar eclipse glasses and the library's limited supply:
Can't make it to any library events? Here are some other leads on free eclipse glasses. If using these resources, please be cautious to avoid counterfeit glasses. Learn more about Eclipse Safety
Join us at Wright Library for these special eclipse-related programs and activities. A limited supply of eclipse glasses may be available to attendees, while supplies last, at each event; limit 2 pairs per household, please.
😎 = events where eclipse glasses may be available for attendees. Limit 1-2 per household, please.