Eclipse 2017: Astronomer Andrew Fraknoi Presents

In this illustrated, nontechnical talk, for ages 10 to adult, astronomer Andrew Fraknoi, will describe how eclipses work, why they are one of nature’s most spectacular sights, what scientists learn during eclipses, exactly when and where the eclipse of 2017 will be visible, and how to observe the eclipse and the Sun safely.

At the conclusion of the program, everyone will receive a pair of certified safe eclipse-viewing glasses, courtesy of the Gordon and Betty Moore Foundation. Copies of Professor Fraknoi’s children’s book on eclipses, When the Sun Goes Dark (2017, NSTA Kids) will be available for sale and signing after the talk.

On Monday, August 21, 2017, there will be an eclipse of the Sun visible throughout the U.S. and all of North America.  People in a narrow path from Oregon to South Carolina will see a spectacular total eclipse, with the Moon briefly covering the Sun, and day turning into night.  Everyone else (an estimated 500 million people, including all of us in the Bay Area) will see a partial eclipse, where the Moon covers a good part of the Sun.  Special glasses or viewing techniques are needed to look at the Sun safely during a partial eclipse (sunglasses are NOT enough). 

Speaker: Andrew Fraknoi, is the former chair of the astronomy department at Foothill College and the co-author of a new illustrated children’s book about eclipses.