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Saturday, Oct. 14, the northeast Tennessee area will be treated to a partial solar eclipse as the moon passes between the earth and sun blocking out a portion of the solar disc. Although this is not a total eclipse, Elizabethton will still experience an eclipse magnitude of 54%.
Sycamore Shoals State Historic Park invites the public to participate in several activities geared around the eclipse as you enjoy one of nature’s most spectacular wonders.
The public is invited to join the park’s interpretive staff to learn the difference between a total and an annular solar eclipse. Those attending will also learn how the 18th century Native people and early settlers regarded eclipses and also learn about Sycamore Shoals State Park’s unique connection with the moon.
Park personnel warn the public to never look at the sun without proper eye protection. ISO certified solar viewing glasses are available in the park gift shop for only $2.95 each. There will be other ways in which you can safely view the eclipse. For an up-close view you can take a peek through the telescope which will be set up on the park grounds. Also, supplies will be provided to make a simple pinhole solar projector.
At Sycamore Shoals the eclipse will begin at 11:47 a.m. The maximum coverage point, where the eclipse magnitude will be at 54%, will occur at 1:12 p.m., and the eclipse will end at 2:41 p.m. The event is free and is a great opportunity for your family to come to one of Tennessee’s most historic places to witness a historic and rare event.
Sycamore Shoals State Historic Park is located at 1651 West Elk Ave. in Elizabethton.
EVENT SCHEDULE
– 11a.m. – Event Opens
– 11:47 a.m. – Start of the Eclipse: Total Duration 2 hours 54 minutes. *Please use ISO certified solar viewing glasses or lenses to observe the sun during all phases of the eclipse! Special eclipse viewing glasses available in the park gift shop.
– 12:30 p.m. – “Eclipses, A Natural and Cultural Phenomenon”: What is the difference between a total and an annular solar eclipse? How did early settlers and native people regard eclipses? What is Sycamore Shoals State Park’s unique connection to the moon? Join Museum Curator Chad Bogart to find out and learn more about this rare celestial occurrence.
– 1:12 p.m. – Maximum Obscurity: At this point the moon will cover 54% of the sun. *Please continue to use eye protection!
– 2:41 p.m. – End of the Eclipse
– 3 p.m. – Event Closed
All activities are weather dependent. Programs are subject to cancellation in the event of inclement weather.