On April 8, 2024, many across the U.S. will witness what is often described as a once-in-a-lifetime event—a total solar eclipse! The “path of totality” includes a substantial swath of territory spanning several states, including Texas, Oklahoma, Arkansas, Illinois, Indiana, Ohio, Pennsylvania, New York, and more!

Although accounts vary, a clay tablet unearthed in 1948 in what is modern-day Syria is said to contain the first recorded description of a solar eclipse, dating back to 1223 BC! The tablet was from the coastal city of Ugarit, an ancient port city along the northern Mediterranean coast, and is thought to be from the city’s Western Palace Archive. Using accounts like this, scientists are able to make calculations that help understand modern-day conditions, such as the gradual deceleration of the Earth’s rotation.

For us—we are preparing for an exciting time on Monday, April 8 from about 12:30 to 3:15 PM as the trajectory of the eclipse passes closest to our area. We have eclipse viewing glasses available for FREE while supplies last, and visit us anytime on April 8 for an eclipse-related craft and snacks! The next eclipse doesn’t take place until 2044—so don’t miss this one!