Friday, May 3, 7:00 p.m.
Room 310, Ruth Patrick Science Education Center, Aiken, SC
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Room 310, Ruth Patrick Science Education Center, Aiken, SC
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2024 Solar Eclipse
April 8, 2024 has come and gone. The event of the year held much anticipation for everyone and especially those in its totality path. However, we cannot predict the weather. As in just about everything astronomy, we amateur astronomers are relying on good weather and seeing conditions and hope the weather cooperates. Which was not the case in a large sweep of the eclipse’s totality path.
But on April 8, 2024, we who were at the Ruth Patrick Science Center in Aiken, SC had a very exciting and wonderful experience. The weather was beautiful. From solar glasses to make shift eye protection boards to solar filter protected telescopes, those who attended the event (and I dare say over 300) were able to experience the 76% totality of our Sun. The Astronomy Club of Augusta co-hosted the event with several of its members, with their knowledge and equipment, in attendance. From telescopes like the 8” Meade reflector w/solar filter, 3” refractor, binoculars used for projection, Orion 120mm refractor w/solar filter, John White’s homemade solar box and solar boards, all of which kept the patrons who attended buzzed with excitement. Indeed, it was an atmosphere of educational fun for all the children and their parents. Lots of questions about what makes an eclipse, how far away are the moon and sun, and even what are sunspots. From 1:52 p.m. until 4:22 p.m. all eyes were looking up to watch the moon pass in front of the sun.
Being a part of an astronomy club is a very exciting and educational hobby. From simple observing to astro-photography, the Astronomy Club of Augusta has members who can assist you in learning through their stargaze events, club meetings, and reach out projects. Feel free to come by Ruth Patrick Science Center on the 1st Friday of each month at 7 p.m. and join us. We would love to have you. In the meantime, clear skies and happy observing.
Ray Owens, ACA Secretary
Photos: Lexi Tanner, Neil Miller
Photos: Lexi Tanner, Neil Miller
Download a beautiful 2024 astronomy calendar free from APT. The November image was taken by ACA members, Richard Cofer and Jim Cadieux. Note that the zip file may take some time to download.
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Thinking of buying a telescope? Read this first.
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Do you have questions about the club?
Email our Vice President of Programs, Richard Cofer. |
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Events at Ruth Patrick Science Education Center
The DuPont Planetarium is open for public showings every Saturday. All shows last one hour unless otherwise noted. Each show includes a live "sky tonight" portion. Weather permitting, the RPSEC Observatory, housing the Bechtel Telescope, will be open for viewing after each show.
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