Unless you’ve been in the dark, you’ll know that this Saturday, Oct. 14 is the annular solar eclipse. Although the Nashville area isn’t in the direct path of the eclipse, slightly more than 50% of the sun will be obscured during its peak at around 12:05 p.m.
Here’s what you need to know to set your eyes on the skies (with proper protection, of course) for your solar celebrations.
Safety first
Because the sun is never completely blocked by the moon during an annular solar eclipse, you’ll need special eye protection for the whole viewing. If you’re looking to get your hands on a pair, check out these NASA-approved solar eclipse glasses or pick up complimentary glasses at one of the events below.
You can also get creative and view the event indirectly through pinhole projection using an object with small holes in it (think: a pasta colander). Find more guidelines for safe viewing provided by NASA.
Community viewing events
Adventure Science Center, 800 Fort Negley Blvd. | 9 a.m.-5 p.m. | Cost of admission | Visit the science center for all-day activities, themed planetarium shows, and eclipse viewing. Bonus: Staff members plan to share an “exciting announcement” about the total solar eclipse in April 2024.
Vanderbilt University Dyer Observatory, 1000 Oman Dr., Brentwood | 10:30 a.m.-1:30 p.m. | Free | Join local astronomers to safely observe the partial solar eclipse on the Dyer grounds. Heads up: This event has sold out, but you can join the waitlist.
Warner Park Nature Center, 7311 Hwy. 100 | 10 a.m.-2 p.m. | Free | This weekend’s Explore with a Naturalist program is dedicated to the eclipse.
Window Cliff State Natural Area, 8400 Old Cane Creek Rd., Baxter | 11 a.m.-2 p.m. | Up for a challenge? Drive ~1 hour east of Nashville for a guided hike during the eclipse. Pro tip: The 5.4-mile hike is considered strenuous due to elevation change and the route’s 18 creek crossings.
