A Solar Eclipse is when the sun, moon, and earth line up in space. The moon passes between the sun and earth, causing a shadow on our planet, blocking the sun’s light. Temperatures can drop several degrees and the skies will darken. According to NASA, viewing any part of the bright Sun through a camera lens, binoculars, or a telescope without a special-purpose solar filter secured over the front of the optics will instantly cause severe eye injury.
Greeneville City Schools will dismiss school early today. GHS and GMS will dismiss at 11:30 AM and elementary schools will dismiss at 11:45. Lunch will be served before dismissal. Afternoon athletic programs and practices may begin at 5:00 p.m. or later in the city system.
Greene County Schools are dismissing at 11:30 today for the partial solar eclipse.
Community members who want to see the partial solar eclipse can plan to be at Tusculum University. Tusculum’s Bonner Leader Program, a student service organization, and College of Science, Technology and Mathematics are partnering to host a viewing party from 2:30-3:30 p.m. at Pioneer Field. The public is invited to join Tusculum’s faculty, staff and students for this rare scientific wonder.
As long as the weather cooperates and people take the appropriate precautions, it should be a neat experience. People should not look directly at the sun during this event without quality eclipse glasses. Dr. Chuck Pearson, chair of the university’s Natural Sciences Department and a chemistry and physics professor, said the scientific elements of the eclipse will be a great active and learning opportunity for people of all ages.
The first 100 attendees will receive free eclipse glasses. While East Tennessee will not experience a total solar eclipse, Dr. Pearson said the region will enjoy a substantial amount of darkness. He said the partial eclipse will create some shadows on bushes that will be impressive to see and recognize as an effect of the moon covering a portion of the sun. Even if the weather is overcast, people will still see noticeable effects from the eclipse.
Anyone with questions can contact Dr. Pearson at [email protected].
