On August 21, a total solar eclipse – in which the moon completely covers the sun – will sweep the entire United States. While South Florida is not in the path of totality, we will experience a partial eclipse, covering the sun about 80 percent. (The closest big city near the path of the total eclipse is Charleston, South Carolina, an 8.5-hour drive from Miami. The towns of McClellanville, 40 miles north, and Santee, an hour northwest, are right on the centerline.)
The Southern Cross Astronomical Society (SCAS), one of the oldest amateur astronomical societies in the Western Hemisphere, will be on hand at the Deering Estate for a watch party. “SCAS Astros will have hi-tech solarscopes arranged at the shore and explain how the Moon passes across the solar surface,” says Barb Yager, SCAS spokesperson. It’s also the first day of school, she says, and she suggests creating a large puddle of water on a solid surface so students and others can view the partial eclipse safely. “Never look directly at the sun unless it is covered by dense haze or fog during sunrise or sunset,” she adds. “Sunglasses are not safe.”
ECLIPSE TREATS: Whip up these quick Solar Eclipse Moon Pies (recipe at left). They’re best to make right before serving.
WATCH THE ECLIPSE
Mon., Aug. 21
1pm-4pm
Deering Estate
Free with admission ($12 adults, $7 children 4-14, free for Deering Estate Foundation members)
deeringestate.org
Frost Science Museum
Admission for Miami-Dade residents ($23.80 adults, $17 3-11, free 2 and under, members free)
frostscience.org
