Historic Solar Eclipse Observed at WKU’s Hardin Planetarium

Community Members and Students Gathered for A Uniquely Cosmic Experience

Bowling Green, Ky — The Hardin Planetarium on the campus of Western Kentucky University (WKU) hosted a community-wide viewing event for a significant celestial occasion – the solar eclipse. College students, local citizens, and fervent sky gazers assembled at the planetarium to witness this rare spectacle together.

Event Highlights and Attendee Reception

The Planetarium arranged a series of activities echoing the solar eclipse theme, provided complimentary solar shields necessary for eye safety during the eclipse, and even streamed a live feed from NASA documenting the total eclipse. “This feels almost magical because we all get to share in this once-in-a-lifetime event. It’s amazing to meet so many different people through our common love for astronomy,” expressed Kelly Jones, a freshman at WKU majoring in anthropology.

While the event had a good turnout from the student crowd, it also attracted people across various age groups. “This will likely be the last eclipse I witness, so I had to come out and embrace the event,” shared Sandra Audrey, a Bowling Green resident. Audrey, who was abroad during the 2017 eclipse, made it a point to partake in this year’s spectacle.

The Eclipse Observations

Compared to the 100% totality of the 2017 solar eclipse visible from Bowling Green, this year’s event displayed a relatively lesser magnitude of 97% totality. Erick Mejia, a 13-year-old attendee, perceived this cosmic phenomenon as a sort of full-circle moment as his last encounter with an eclipse was seven years back as a six-year-old. “The sun and moon are nearly perfect. Now is the prime time to observe the solar eclipse and revel in the fun,” Mejia shared.

Gabriel Jerdon, a WKU student, also reminisced about the 2017 occurrence. “I watched this back when I was in high school — it’s thrilling to witness it now as an adult,” Jerdon recounted.

Event Duration and Future Projections

The solar eclipse commenced at 12 p.m. and concluded at 3:30 p.m. According to advanced projections, the next total solar eclipse is expected to take place in August 2045. These rare occasions not only unveil cosmic splendors but also bring together communities, consolidating scientific curiosity and shared experiences.