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Experience a Solar Eclipse in New York State

2024 Total Solar Eclipse Recap 

April 8, 2024, was a monumental day in history as spectators across North America gathered to witness a rare total solar eclipse. During this extraordinary event, the moon passed between the sun and Earth, briefly blocking the sun’s light and plunging the landscape into temporary darkness. Since total solar eclipses occur in the same location every 375 years, experiencing one is a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity for many.  

The eclipse was visible across much of New York. From Chautauqua-Allegheny to Niagara Falls, the Finger Lakes, the Adirondacks, and the Thousand Islands-Seaway, countless New Yorkers and visitors watched as the eclipse moved along its 124-mile-wide path of totality. The event began in Western New York around 2 p.m. EST, with Chautauqua County experiencing full totality shortly after 3 p.m. The eclipse then continued northeast, reaching Plattsburgh just before 3:30 p.m.

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With so many regions in the path of totality, New Yorkers had a variety of breathtaking viewing experiences. Some chose to watch near the roaring waters of Niagara Falls, while others hiked to scenic Adirondack locations to take in this rare celestial event. In some parts of the state, total darkness lasted up to four minutes, creating an unforgettable moment for those fortunate enough to witness it. 

If you missed it, don’t worry—more exciting celestial events are on the horizon! 

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Explore All Things Space

The next total solar eclipse visible in New York State won’t happen until 2079, but there’s no need to wait decades for your next celestial adventure! Discover upcoming space and science exhibits, planetarium shows, breathtaking stargazing locations, and immersive space attractions across New York State—keeping the wonders of the cosmos within reach all year long.

 

Hayden Planetarium Space Theater at the American Museum of Natural History

Credit: @dario.nyc on Instagram

Eclipse viewing glasses on the lawn in front of the RMSC

Credit: @rocsolareclipse on Instagram

Discover Space at the American Museum of Natural History 

Embark on immersive journeys through the cosmos at the famed Hayden Planetarium, housed within the American Museum of Natural History. Worlds Beyond Earth, narrated by Academy Award-winning actress Lupita Nyong’o, uses scientific data and breathtaking visuals to bring the wonders of our solar system to life while Passport to the Universe, narrated by Tom Hanks, offers a stunning exploration of our galaxy. In addition to exhibitions, the museum hosts a variety of space-related lectures and programs throughout the year. 

Stargaze at the Rochester Museum & Science Center 

The Rochester Museum & Science Center is home to the Strasenburgh Planetarium, where visitors can experience immersive shows about constellations and our solar system. Rochester’s Eyes in Space exhibit highlights groundbreaking technologies developed in Rochester that have advanced our ability to explore the stars. Same Sky provides an interactive look at how cultures around the world have studied and interpreted astronomy throughout history. 

More Planetarium Experiences

The John R. Kirk Planetarium at the State University of New York at New Paltz is open to the public for “Astronomy Night,” which is held on the first and third Thursday of each month while school is in session. The event begins with an indoor planetarium show, followed by telescope viewing at the Smolen Observatory. A suggested $5 donation provides access to this unique stargazing experience. In Centerport, the Reichert Planetarium at the Vanderbilt Museum and Mansion features spectacular space shows projected onto a 60-foot dome. Popular events include both daytime and evening planetarium shows, as well as immersive laser shows on select days. 

Explore Space and Aviation History 

Space exploration isn’t just about what’s beyond our atmosphere—it’s also about the technology that gets us there. New York State is home to incredible aviation and space museums: 

  • The Intrepid Museum– This maritime museum houses the world’s first space shuttle, along with space-flown capsules like the Soyuz TMA-6, offering a rare look at historic spaceflight artifacts. 

Eclipse Viewing Safety Tips

NOT FOR PUBLIC USE

  • Remember to protect your eyes with specialized solar viewing glasses.
  • Check traffic before heading out for this epic event.
  • Prepare for the weather.
  • If camping, bring the proper gear and watch out for ticks.

These are just some of the many tips to keep in mind to have a safe and enjoyable eclipse viewing experience. For full health and safety information, click here.

MORE RESOURCES & INFORMATION

A solar eclipse is a rare event, but New York State offers countless ways to stay connected to space and aviation year-round.  

Visit one of the state’s dark sky destinations or planetariums for incredible stargazing and immersive space experiences. For those fascinated by flight, explore New York’s rich aviation history and discover museums dedicated to groundbreaking innovations in air and space travel. You can even take a boat ride or fly through history at interactive transportation museums that bring the wonders of exploration to life. 

Total Solar Eclipse: FAQs

2024 Eclipse: FAQs
  • What is a total solar eclipse?

    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. The sky will become dark, as if it were dawn or dusk. Weather permitting, people along the path of totality will see the sun's corona, or outer atmosphere, which is usually obscured by the bright face of the sun.

  • How frequent is a total solar eclipse?

    Solar eclipses are fairly numerous, about two to four per year, with a total eclipse taking place about every 18 months. The last total solar eclipse visible from the U.S. occurred on Aug. 21, 2017. However, a total solar eclipse reoccurs in the same location roughly every 375 years.

  • When is the next total solar eclipse?

    After the eclipse of 2024, the next total solar eclipse will occur on Aug. 12, 2026. Totality will be visible from Greenland, Iceland, the Atlantic Ocean, and Spain. The next cross-country solar eclipse in North America won’t happen until 2045.

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