Events Scheduled for Solar Eclipse Across IL
(Springfield IL) — Anyone who wants to enjoy today’s solar eclipse in Illinois will not be lacking events to choose from. In Carbondale, where thousands are expected to gather today, the Southern Illinois University campus is hosting a festival just south of the campus. Officials in Chester, Illinois, are inviting visitors to watch the eclipse from the banks of the Mississippi. The Adler Planetarium in Chicago is holding activities outside the building where visitors can observe the eclipse and the Ryder Family Farm in Golconda, Illinois, is serving a four-course farm dinner to enjoy while watching the eclipse.
Officials Warn Of Eclipse Traffic
(Undated) — State officials are warning people about possible traffic issues across Illinois because of today’s solar eclipse. Nationwide, the Federal Highway Administration estimates that up to five million people will be traveling to see the event. Officials say that’s likely because there are eight major cities within a three-hour drive from the path of totality, including several in Illinois. To avoid the congestion, they recommend travelers leave for their trips earlier and stay at their destinations a bit longer.
Experts Warn Against Fake Eclipse Glasses
(Washington, DC) — Experts are warning people about fake eclipse glasses. The American Astronomical Society reminded stargazers to wear approved eclipse glasses today to watch the event and to make sure they aren’t counterfeit. Real eclipse glasses are specially made to block almost all visible light, and the AAS warned the market is full of cheap knockoffs that could cause blindness. Today, the moon will pass between Earth and the sun, blocking much of its light for a few minutes. The society provides a list of reputable makers of eclipse eye protection for the roughly 32 million Americans who will be able to see the total solar eclipse where they live.
IL Tourism Officials Hope for Economic Boom from Eclipse
(Springfield, IL) — Illinois tourism officials say they expect the state will enjoy an economic boom from today’s eclipse. The last solar eclipse seven years ago saw between 15-and-18 million dollars generated in the state by eclipse-related activities. Officials say the longer exposure period this time around combined with the sunny weather forecasts mean the likelihood more money will be generated this year. In addition to events, eclipse-related merchandise is being rolled out: Big Muddy Brewing in Murphysboro created a new brew called Dark Noon.
Schools Closing for Eclipse Cautioned Not to Call E-Learning Day
(Springfield, IL) — Illinois education officials say schools planning to cancel classes today because of the solar eclipse should not consider it a valid e-learning day. They say the purpose of e-learning days is for emergency closures, not planned events such as the eclipse. More than 70 school districts across the state are closing today for the eclipse.
Comments