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Description
Come on out to the lake and be a part of this rare and amazing celestial event! On April 8, 2024, a total solar eclipse will cross North America, passing over Mexico, the United States, and Canada. A total solar eclipse happens when the Moon passes between the Sun and Earth, completely blocking the face of the Sun. The sky will darken as if it were dawn or dusk.
From our vantage point we will get to witness only a partial solar eclipse of about 85% coverage. Solar eclipses should never be viewed directly with the human eye, so eye protection for viewing the eclipse is a must. A limited number of free safety glasses will be available on a first-come, first-serve basis; other glasses can be purchased for $1.
The start time for the eclipse will vary by location. For Smith Mountain Lake State Park, Huddleston, VA, it will begin at 1:57 p.m., peak at 3:15 p.m., and end at 4:29 p.m. Please join our park interpreter at the Discovery Center Pavilion between 2 p.m. and 4 p.m. for answers to eclipse-related questions and fun astronomy activities.
Bring a chair or blanket to sit on for a more comfortable viewing time as the entire event of the eclipse lasts over two hours. The next solar eclipse visible from the US won’t be until 2044, so don’t miss out. The event is free but regular parking fees apply.
April 8, 2024. 2:00 p.m. - 4:00 p.m.
Standard parking or admission fee applies: Yes.
Extra fee: No.
Children welcome: Yes.
Phone: 540-297-6066
Who
All ages
