Experience a Solar Eclipse in New York State

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.

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. 

• Empire State Aerosciences Museum–Discover the history of flight, how aviation has evolved, and its connection to space exploration. 

• American Airpower Museum at Republic Airport on Long Island – Explore aviation history through aircraft displays and hands-on experiences. 

• Old Rhinebeck Aerodrome Museum & Air Shows–Step back in time with vintage aircraft exhibits and live air shows. 

• Niagara Aerospace Museum–Learn about the innovations in aviation and aerospace from this historic region. 

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.