Go Where the Sun Don’t Shine

We remember our first solar eclipse — way back in 2017, when we were just a baby newsletter. In Moore County, we put on our special glasses to get a peek at the sun’s corona through clouds. The moon will take the spotlight again on Monday, April 8.

So, what’s the big deal?

• Solar eclipses are rare. Unless you’re on the set of a post-apocalyptic film, it’s theonly time you’ll experience Earth plunging into darkness in the middle of the day. The temperature drops. Birds go to roost. It gets real quiet. See more about how animals react.
• This one is pretty accessible. The path of totality will be about 115 miles wide, compared to 62 miles wide in 2017, and will last up to 4 minutes, 28 seconds, almost double that of seven years ago. Here are maps.
• 99% of people in the U.S. will see at least part of it. Moore County is expected to see 80% coverage at the peak, around 3 p.m. If you plan to look up, you’ll need special glasses or a viewer. 

WHERE TO VIEW LOCALLY:

1-7 p.m.: Join James Creek Cider House for their viewing party. There will be eclipse glasses available for you to view the sun throughout the phases, and Ann Marie and David will be there to chat about this phenomenon and answer questions about how James Creek has come up with all our space themed ciders. (Peak viewing is between 2-4 p.m.) Get excited.

2-4 p.m.: Join Weymouth Woods Sandhills Nature Preserve with the family to see the eclipse. Kids can enjoy sun themed crafts and activities, and stations to learn about more how an eclipse happens. Limited viewing glasses are available.