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The Wonders of a Total Solar Eclipse
My first encounter with a total solar eclipse occurred seven years ago and was nothing short of remarkable. Nonetheless, amidst the awe-inspiring spectacle, a hint of melancholy pervaded the experience. Allow me to elaborate on this peculiar combination of emotions.
A Glimpse Into the Past
The inaugural total solar eclipse I beheld took place on August 21, 2017, at Saluki Stadium situated in Southern Illinois University, Carbondale. Interestingly, this location is poised to witness yet another total solar eclipse on April 8. Although surrounded by numerous other spectators during the event, it was predominantly a solitary endeavor as my loved ones remained in New Jersey outside the totality zone, yearning for a mere glimpse of the partial eclipse. Thus, as the moment of totality concluded, and the sun emerged from behind the moon, the elation stemming from witnessing such a cosmic phenomenon was tinged with remorse for departing from my family.
However, a shift is imminent for the forthcoming total solar eclipse slated for April 8, 2024. On this occasion, I am accompanied by my 15-year-old daughter, Zadie, and a group of friends.
Embracing the Splendor of the Cosmos
Embarking from New Jersey and traversing the picturesque Adirondack mountains of upstate New York, my destination is Potsdam, a quaint college town boasting a population of approximately 15,000 residents. The choice of this locale was influenced by close acquaintances associated with the university, who not only highlighted the accommodation availability in the university dormitories at a modest rate in contrast to the exorbitant hotel prices but also emphasized the array of community festivities organized to commemorate the eclipse. All factors considered, it seemed like the perfect setting to partake in this cosmic phenomenon alongside my family.
“What aspect of the solar eclipse are you most anticipating?” I inquired from my daughter as we embarked on the initial leg of our six-hour journey. Meanwhile, my wife volunteered to remain behind, overlooking our feline companion Morris. Equipped with eclipse glasses, they anticipate viewing a sun partially obscured by 91.5%, weather permitting.
Nonetheless, in case weather conditions are favorable, Potsdam is poised to bask in up to three minutes and fourteen seconds of totality between 3:24 p.m. and 3:27 p.m. EDT on April 8, 2024. Local authorities have affirmed that such a spectacle will not grace the village’s skies again until the year 2399.
Sorry, Space Fans. They’re all out of free solar eclipse glasses at the Platekill Rest Stop off I-87 in New York. Try again tomorrow. They have 100 per day from NY State gov. #SolarEclipse2024 #SolarEclipse #Eclipse2024 Totality or bust!🌞🌑🌞 April 6, 2024
Celebrating the Celestial Alignment
Potsdam Mayor Alexandra Jacobs Wilke expressed her enthusiasm for the upcoming total solar eclipse, deeming it a truly generational event that will not recur within their lifetimes or those of their progeny. The Village of Potsdam, alongside the entire North Country, eagerly anticipates this momentous occurrence, fostering an atmosphere brimming with wonder for all visitors.
While neighboring universities restrict their eclipse-related events to campus premises, SUNY Potsdam open-heartedly welcomes the public, envisaging hosting up to 5,000 attendees for the eclipse festivities on Monday afternoon, marked by a myriad of instructional sessions and dialogues scheduled from 1:30 p.m. to 4 p.m. EDT.
Image source: SUNY Potsdam
Dr. Page Quinton, a geochemist and associate professor of Earth and Environmental Sciences involved in event coordination, disclosed the anticipatory influx of external attendees, surpassing the institutional community’s participation.
For the auspicious occasion, SUNY Potsdam’s academic calendar for April 8 has been cleared, synchronized with the town’s school district, ensuring students’ accessibility to the solar eclipse experience. The Potsdam Central School District thoughtfully distributed eclipse glasses among elementary students preceding the term break.
Amidst the eclipse-themed memorabilia curated for visitors, inclusive of Frisbees, stickers, and assorted mementos available for purchase, Quinton elaborated on the event’s dual purpose—a platform for interactive engagement with diverse university facets and an opportunity for community involvement.
Embracing Novel Experiences
Opting for SUNY Potsdam as the eclipse venue, unforeseen prospects emerged, allowing my daughter to gain firsthand insight into collegiate life as we reside in the university dormitories. Moreover, the institution has arranged a warm reception for aspiring students, offering a glimpse into SUNY Potsdam’s educational sanctum.
Quinton herself, having previously encountered partial eclipses, anticipates experiencing totality for the first time, a notion that fuels her excitement.
Across Potsdam, an array of celebratory events awaits, including the three-day Eclipse Fragrance Festival hosted at Adirondack Fragrance Farm. Simultaneously, neighboring establishments such as the Jernabi Coffeehouse have concocted eclipse-themed beverages to delight connoisseurs. In addition, the local children’s museum has tailored Science Saturday events to educate youngsters on eclipses.
Wilke expressed the anticipatory ambiance shrouding St. Lawrence County preparations for the impending eclipse, alluding to unforeseeable outcomes amidst favorable local weather projections.
“This collective experience among communities is pivotal in witnessing the cosmic wonders unraveled before our eyes,” Wilke expressed. “This event serves as a testament to the perseverance and unity exemplified within Potsdam, a spectacle to cherish for both denizens and visitors alike.”
“It serves as a poignant reminder of our minuscule existence within the vast expanse of the universe, a realization that underscores our intrinsic value and the imperative to safeguard our celestial heritage for future generations,” she concluded.
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