From 4:40-5:45 pm, Laws Observatory (701 S College Ave, Columbia MO), at the top of the MU Physics Bldg, will host viewing of the partial solar eclipse.
“The partial eclipse will begin at 4:40 p.m. with maximum coverage occurring around 5:45 p.m.,” said Angela Speck, professor of astrophysics and director of astronomy in the College of Arts and Science at MU. “Laws Observatory will be open and running the larger telescope with a solar filter as well as our smaller telescope. In addition, we will have eclipse glasses so that everyone attending can view the eclipse safely.”
It is important that viewers refrain from viewing the eclipse with the naked eye or even regular or polarized sunglasses as damage can occur, Speck said.
The event is free and open to the public. Parking is free after 5 pm in the MU parking garages and some street lots (details will be on the sign at the entrance to the lot). Street meter parking is also available (costs until 6 pm). You may also find free residential street parking on the other side of College Ave.
Additional resources for the eclipse and safe viewing may be found at:
- http://www.timeanddate.com/eclipse/in/usa/jefferson-city?iso=20141023
- http://www.timeanddate.com/eclipse/eclipse-tips-safety.html
For more information, contact Angela Speck, speckan@missouri.edu
