North Texans are anticipating a celestial spectacle as a solar eclipse graces the region. On April 8th, the moon will position itself strategically between the earth and the sun, casting a captivating shadow that will sweep across the sky. This cosmic event is eagerly welcomed by both seasoned astronomers and casual sky gazers alike since a similar alignment isn’t expected in North America until August 2045 and in our region until June 2169!
Observers in the Texoma region can expect a near totality, where the moon will cover almost all of the sun. The moon begins its brief journey across the sun at about 12:23PM with the peak of the eclipse, known as maximum obscuration, projected to occur at approximately 1:40PM. The sun will return to its normal glory by around 3:02PM so make sure you are in position to witness the traverse in time!
Local opportunities to view the eclipse can be found across the Texoma area. Our personal favorite is the Pottsboro Library Luncheon at Blue Willow Café (4616 S. Hwy 75, Denison, 75020). You can take part in this once in a lifetime event and support a great cause at the same time! Other notable viewing opportunities are offered by the Friends of Hagerman at the Hagerman Wildlife Refuge (6465 Refuge Rd, Sherman, 75092) and the Sherman Senior Center (1500 N Broughton, Sherman, 75090) in the far parking lot off Broughton Street.
Regardless of where you choose to view the eclipse, safety precautions are crucial during any solar observation as looking directly at the sun can cause severe eye damage, even during a totality. Specialized solar viewing glasses or solar viewers are essential to protect one's eyes while witnessing this extraordinary phenomenon. At some of our local events, enthusiasts are providing the public with access to telescopes equipped with solar filters giving the best opportunity to safely witness this incredible spectacle.