Annular Eclipse viewing

Come one, come all for the 2023 Annular Eclipse and experience this unique event with your Mercer community! The library will have our Sunspotter ready to view the eclipse as it happens, which uses lenses and mirrors to safely show a projection of the sun’s image. We’ll also have free eclipse glasses and arts and crafts. All ages are welcome and there is no cost to attend.

An annular solar eclipse happens when the Moon passes between the Sun and Earth while it is at its farthest point from Earth. Because the Moon is farther away from Earth, it appears smaller than the Sun and does not completely cover the star. In areas of maximum eclipse, the sun appears as a black circle surrounded by a “ring of fire.” Even though we won’t be able to see a peak annular eclipse, we’re expecting to see about 50% coverage here in Mercer.

The eclipse should start at 10:35 a.m. local time and peak at 11:52 a.m.

For more information and advice on safely viewing the eclipse, visit NASA’s website at solarsystem.nasa.gov/eclipses/2023/oct-14-annular/overview.