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The Great American Solar Eclipse Party- Springfield Museums
April 8 @ 10:00 am - 5:00 pm
The last of the Great American solar eclipses happens today! Join us in the Science Museum and on the North Lawn for a day of astronomical fun. During this rare event, the sun disappears behind the moon plunging the world into temporary darkness. STEM educators and volunteers will be on hand to provide information and answer questions. The experience will be enhanced by interactive exhibits and engaging activities designed to expand your understanding of the solar system.
Free eclipse glasses for the first 250 visitors to arrive at the Welcome Center. (Additional pairs available for purchase in the Hanmer Museum Store.)
Special Admission
$8 per visitor
FREE for Museum members and Springfield residents
Buy Tickets
Safe Eclipse Viewing, 2–4:30 pm
Filtered telescopes, a limited number of shareable eclipse glasses, and pinhole projectors available on the North Lawn, with instruction from planetarium staff and members of the Springfield STARS Club. In case of rain, a live stream of the eclipse from NASA will be presented in the Science Museum.
Hear the Eclipse, 2-4:30 pm
A unique experience designed for the blind and low-vision community. A sonification box translates the solar eclipse into sound using a sensor to detect changes in light and generate corresponding audio. Weather permitting.
Eclipse Preview Planetarium Show
10:30 am 11 am, 11:30 am, 12 pm, 12:30 pm, and 1 pm
Our knowledgeable staff in the Seymour Planetarium will guide you on what to expect from the afternoon’s solar eclipse. Learn how the earth, sun, and moon interact to form this spectacular sight. Recommended for visitors age 8 and up. Runtime: 15 minutes. Seating is limited. Tickets available on a first come, first serve basis in the Welcome Center.
Additional Activities
Entertainment by Malik the Magician
Live reptile demonstrations
Note: The art, history, and Dr. Seuss museums will NOT be open.
