Kokomo’s Guide to the Total Solar Eclipse
What you Need to Know:
So, what exactly is a solar eclipse? How can we safely observe this awe-inspiring phenomenon? And what can we expect to witness during this cosmic spectacle? To shed light on these questions, we’ve turned to Patrick Motl, an astronomer, professor of physics and associate dean for the School of Sciences at Indiana University Kokomo.
A total solar eclipse happens when the Moon passes between the Sun and Earth, completely blocking the face of the Sun. People viewing the eclipse from locations where the Moon’s shadow completely covers the Sun – known as the path of totality – will experience a total solar eclipse. In Kokomo, it will happen at approximately 3:08 p.m.
Kokomo lies in a unique path when viewing the Total Solar Eclipse because the south side of Kokomo is in the direct path but the north side is not. The south side will be getting just under a minute of totality and experts say traveling to the south side to see a total eclipse instead of just a partial eclipse is worth it.
If there’s ANY bright part of the sun showing, then you MUST use your eclipse glasses to watch the event. Scroll to the bottom of this article to see where you can buy glasses locally.
Prepare for extra travel time and traffic delays.
If you don’t have glasses — here are some other ways to view the solar eclipse safely!
Local School Closings and E-Learning Days:
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Acacia Academy - Closed
Eastern - E-learning
Indiana University Kokomo - Closed
Ivy Tech Community College - Virtual classes
Kokomo School Corporation - E-learning
Maconaquah School Corporation - E-learning
Northwestern - Closed
Peru- Students will be released at 1 p.m.
Taylor - Closed
Tipton - Students will be released by 2 p.m.
Tri-Central - Closed
Western - Synchronous learning day - teachers will be online with students for live classes, but the school day and classes will be shorter in duration.
Events:
Indiana University Kokomo
IU Kokomo Observatory eclipse viewing and KEY Academy reception.
When: 1:30 p.m. to 4 p.m., Monday, April 8
Where: IU Kokomo - 2300 S. Washington St., Kokomo
Kokomo Parks and Recreation Dept. Eclipse Viewing Party
Watch the total solar eclipse in Jackson Morrow Park hosted by the Kokomo Parks & Recreation Department.
When: 2 to 4 p.m. Monday, April 8
Where: Jackson Morrow Park, 4200 S. Park Road, Kokomo,
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Eclipse Insights with Dr. Motl
Join the library at the IU Kokomo Observatory where Dr. Patrick Motl will share facts and insights on the upcoming solar eclipse.
When: 7 to 8 p.m. Sunday, March 24
Where: IU Kokomo Observatory, 2660 S. Washington St., Kokomo
Digital Den Designs - Stencil Eclipse Painting
In this class with the Digital Den, you will create stencils to help paint a beautiful picture of the eclipse.
Register now by clicking here.
When: 1 to 2 p.m. Wednesday, March 27
Where: The Digital Den KHCPL Main, 220 N. Union St., Kokomo
Eclipsing Colors - Solar Eclipse Painting
Kids can express creativity using science and art while learning about the Eclipse. Register by clicking here or by calling any KHCPL location. (Suited for ages 6 to 11 years old)
When: 2:30 to 3:30 p.m. Friday, March 29
Where: KHCPL South Branch 1755 E. Center Rd., Kokomo
Exploring the Cosmos
Embark on a journey through the wonders of space exploration with BJ Austin, president at IN Space, LLC and distinguished NASA Solar System Ambassador.
When: 7 to 8 p.m. Thursday, April 4
Where: KHCPL South Branch, 1755 E. Center Road, Kokomo
First Friday: Eclipse
This April in downtown Kokomo it’s all about the eclipse, light and dark, black and white.
When: 5:30 to 8 p.m. Friday, April 5
Where: Throughout Downtown Kokomo
Spelljammer Academy: Dungeons & Dragons in Space!
Celebrate the Solar Eclipse by joining the library for a Dungeons & Dragons Journey in Space!
Register by clicking here.
When: 3 to 9 p.m. Saturday, April 6
Where: KHCPL Main, 220 N. Union St., Kokomo
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Eclipse Viewing Party at KHCPL South
Join the library for an afternoon celebrating one of the most awe-inspiring spectacles in all of nature!
When: Noon to 4 p.m. Monday, April 8
Where: KHCPL South 1755 E. Center Rd., Kokomo
Eclipse at The Riverwalk
Luna Worldcast and The Pickin' Pear are throwing a party at The Riverwalk Pavilion stage that’s going to be a TOTAL blast! This is a free all-ages concert with burgers, beer and local art.
When: 1 to 4 p.m. Monday, April 8
Where: Riverwalk Pavilion downtown Kokomo
Dark at the Diamond
A family-friendly, free eclipse viewing party at Kokomo Municipal Stadium. With music, entertainment, delicious food and refreshments.
Eclipse glasses for the first 2,500 people
When: 2 to 4 p.m. Monday, April 8
Where: Kokomo Municipal Stadium, 400 S. Union St., Kokomo
Where to Buy Eclipse Glasses Locally
The Kokomo Post does not endorse any of these retailers as certified dealers - please do your research on the company and learn more about the risks of viewing an eclipse by clicking here.
Please call the business to confirm the availability of eclipse glasses.
Cracker Barrel 404 Kentucky Drive, Kokomo
Hucks Gas Station 515 W. Main St., Greentown
Kroger 2821 S. Washington St., Kokomo & 605 N. Dixon Road, Kokomo
Precious Beauties Boutique 3706 S. Lafountain St., Kokomo
Staples 1807 E. Markland Ave., Kokomo
Do you have plans for the eclipse? Whether you’re going to an event with the family or taking a quick break to enjoy it during your busy day, we hope you can experience this phenomenon in Kokomo!