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The Party begins at 1:30 at the Coffman Park Pavilion (click here for park map). The eclipse gets underway at 1:55 with C1 (the time the moon begins to block the sun) scheduled to begin at approximately 1:55. Totality will occur close to 3:10, and our viewing party will conclude at 3:30.
The school will provide eclipse glasses to the attendees, and members of Academy’s Science Department will have several activities for students to enjoy with their families.
The facility and what to bring:
While we will have access to picnic tables, shelter and restrooms, we suggest that families bring lawn chairs and/or blankets, lawn games, snacks and water.
Regarding traffic:
On a typical day, traveling from our campus to Coffman Park takes 25-30 minutes. April 8 will likely be quite different. Widespread traffic tie-ups and delays are expected as perhaps over half a million visitors travel to experience a total eclipse. We suggest you provide extra time for travel! Departments of Transportation are telling people to expect traffic jams and suggest making sure your gas tank is full. Families should plan accordingly.
The weather:
Let’s hope for clear conditions! Cloudy conditions or rain will hamper viewing. In case of heavy rain or cloud cover, CA will send a cancellation via email no later than noon.
What to wear:
Dress appropriately for the weather. Interestingly, many eclipse experts suggest wearing green and red during an eclipse as those colors’ wavelengths are affected by the attenuated light during an eclipse. Observers may notice the diminution of color.
Regarding parking:
Dublin Parks and Rec tells us that there should be enough parking available for Academy families at Coffman Park. However, the City of Dublin will be a popular destination for eclipse viewing, and parking will be unpredictable. Plan on leaving early! Carpooling, public transit or non-vehicular modes of transportation are highly recommended.
Before the eclipse:
Your children’s science classes will introduce why the eclipse happens and basic safety measures to be followed during the eclipse. We suggest that families also learn a bit about the eclipse before April 8. Knowing what to expect in advance will help assure observers are ready for the many phases and changes that will occur.
There are many websites dedicated to the eclipse. One of our favorites is this video from the folks at Smarter Every Day.
An app that we recommend:
There are probably many available, but an app that comes highly recommended is Solar Eclipse Timer (click here), which costs $1.99.
We hope to see you at Coffman Park on the 8th!
Sincerely,
The CA 2024 Eclipse Committee
Julie Keating
Laura King
Sumona Lester ’99
Lindy Newman
John Wuorinen ’80
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