CHILLICOTHE, Ohio — A rare celestial event is on the horizon for Ohio, and residents of Chillicothe will have a front-row seat to the partial show. On Monday, April 8th, 2024, a total solar eclipse will cut a 124-mile-wide path across the state, while Chillicothe and surrounding areas will experience a partial eclipse.
To commemorate this astronomical spectacle, Ohio University Chillicothe will host a free eclipse viewing event on the lawn between Bennett Hall and Shoemaker Center from 2:00 PM to 4:00 PM. While Chillicothe falls just outside the totality zone, attendees can still witness a significant portion of the sun being obscured by the moon.
Solar viewing glasses will be available for attendees while supplies last. Faculty from OHIO Chillicothe will be on hand to showcase solar telescopes, pinhole cameras, and offer explanations of the eclipse’s science and other astronomy-related topics. Guests are encouraged to bring lawn chairs or blankets for this outdoor event, with the Bennett Hall Auditorium serving as a backup location in case of inclement weather.
This total solar eclipse is a rare sight, occurring on average only once every 1.5 years somewhere on Earth. Notably, only 21 total eclipses have crossed the continental United States throughout its history. The last time Ohio witnessed a total eclipse was in 1806, with the next one not expected until 2099.
“This is an exceptional opportunity to witness and learn about a truly rare and awe-inspiring celestial event,” said Michael Koop, associate professor of astronomy and physics at Ohio University Chillicothe. “We invite the community to join our faculty, staff, and students for demonstrations and eclipse viewing on April 8th.”
Those interested in attending the eclipse viewing event at OHIO Chillicothe are encouraged to RSVP beforehand.