After 7 years we finally have another total solar eclipse, which is happening this April 8th. However this is the first solar eclipse visible in Ohio since 1806. During this eclipse, much of Ohio will be in the path of totality, which will be twice as wide as the 2017 eclipse. This year’s eclipse is estimated to last four minutes and 28 seconds maximum.
The path of totality is defined by the University of Arkansas as “the track of the moon’s shadow across the Earth’s surface… This path is typically 16,000 kilometers (about 10,000 miles) long but only 160 kilometers (100 miles) or so wide. In order to see the sun totally eclipsed by the moon, you must be in the path of totality.”
Jonathan Alder, along with many other schools across Ohio, will be closed that day, partially due to an expected increase in traffic. According to the statement released after this decision in November, “Due to the safety and security of all students being our highest priority, in collaboration with the Village of Plain City, based on added traffic, visitors, and estimated time of the solar eclipse, students will not be in session that day.”
However, on April 5th, Canaan Middle school will be hosting a “Space Night” that all Jonathan Alder families are invited to attend. This “Space Night” will include activities like building stomp rockets, constructing rovers, learning about lunar and solar eclipses and more. “We have activities for adults all the way down to preschoolers… it’s going to be a lot of fun,” says Emily Byers, the teacher hosting “Space Night.”
It is never safe to look at thee without proper eye wear. It is so important to wear solar eclipse glasses if you plan to watch the eclipse for the entire four minutes and 28 seconds to avoid solar retinopathy, which can cause permanent damage to the eyes.
The Plain City Library is giving these glasses out for free, however they are available for purchase at Kroger, Walmart, Meijer and most other retail stores.
This chance will not happen again soon. “The last total solar eclipse visible in Ohio was in 1806. The next total solar eclipse in Ohio will be in the year 2099,” says the Ohio Department of Natural Resources.
