Ohio University Chillicothe to host solar eclipse viewing event

On Monday, April 8, 2024, people within a 124-mile-wide band in Ohio will experience a total solar eclipse. Areas in Ohio that are outside the path of totality will experience a partial eclipse. 

Ohio University Chillicothe will host eclipse viewing and educational programming on April 8 on the lawn between Bennett Hall and Shoemaker Center from 2-4 p.m. Although Chillicothe is not in the path of totality, it is close to the path of totality. Solar viewing glasses will be available while supplies last. OHIO Chillicothe faculty will share demonstrations of solar telescopes, pinhole cameras, and descriptions of the science behind the eclipse as well as related astronomy topics. Attendees are encouraged to bring their own lawn chairs or blankets for the outdoor event. In case of cloudy or rainy weather, the event will move to the Bennett Hall Auditorium.  

Areas in Ohio that are outside the path of totality will experience a partial eclipse. A total solar eclipse is a rare and spectacular event. On average, one happens somewhere on the Earth only once every 1.5 years. Only 21 total solar eclipses have crossed the lower 48 states during the existence of the United States. 

The last total solar eclipse visible in Ohio was in 1806. The next total solar eclipse in Ohio will be in the year 2099. 

“This is an incredible opportunity to witness and learn from a rare and spectacular celestial event,” said Michael Koop, associate professor of astronomy and physics and Ohio University Chillicothe. “We welcome community members to join our faculty, staff and students for demonstrations and eclipse viewing on campus on April 8.”  

Please RSVP if you plan to attend eclipse viewing at OHIO Chillicothe.