The Sciencenter is thrilled to announce a weekend of special programming on Saturday, April 6th, and Sunday, April 7th, 2024 dedicated to the upcoming total solar eclipse. Visitors of all ages are invited to participate in hands-on activities related to the solar eclipse and sun science.
Bear’s Shadow
In partnership with NISE Network, we developed two of the activities, “Bear’s Shadow” and “Big Sun, Small Moon,” which are shared in our Solar Eclipse Activity Kits. These kits were created alongside the Finger Lakes Library System to support regional libraries, many of which are in the path of totality.
In “Bear’s Shadow,” learners move a flashlight around an object to make and experiment with shadows, followed by reading a storybook about a little bear exploring its own shadow. This activity is designed primarily for young visitors and their families.
Solar Eclipse Activity Kits
Big Sun, Small Moon
In “Big Sun, Small Moon,” learners explore the concept of the apparent size by looking at models of celestial bodies at different distances. Participants learn that the Sun and Moon appear the same size in our sky because although the Sun is much bigger than the Moon, it is also much farther away.
Other activities include modeling an eclipse, looking at our magnetic Earth and Sun, and tracing shadows, weather permitting.
On the day of the solar eclipse, Monday, April 8th, 2024, the Sciencenter will be closed. However, we are excited to join the New York State Office of Parks for a day-long viewing event at Fair Haven Beach State Park, which is within the path of totality. Experience the eclipse with wind tunnel experiments, shadow art with chalk, and moonbase building.
To promote safe viewing practices, we have eclipse glasses available for free at the museum while supplies last.
For more information about Sciencenter’s eclipse programming, please email info@sciencenter.org.
Highlights
Engaging Programs, April 6-7: Two days of special eclipse activities at the Sciencenter. Activities include “Bear’s Shadow,” “Big Sun, Small Moon,” modeling an eclipse, looking at our magnetic Earth and Sun, and tracing shadows, weather permitting.
Path of Totality Viewing, April 8: New York State Office of Parks is hosting a day-long viewing event at Fair Haven Beach State Park. Witness the eclipse in the path of totality and join Sciencenter staff for hands-on space activities for all ages. Visit our event page for more details.
Library Collaboration: Partnering with Finger Lakes Library System for enhanced eclipse experiences at regional libraries through curated activity kits.
Free Eclipse Glasses: Stay safe with free eclipse glasses available at the Sciencenter.
At-Home Activities
Make your own solar eclipse model with cut-out crafts and fasteners.
Explore “Big Sun, Small Moon” from the NISE Network to understand apparent size and debunk misconceptions about sun and moon size.
Build your own solar system in Solar System Trek in the DIY Solar System app.
Even if you’re not in the path of the eclipse, you can still join in the fun with the U.S. National Science Foundation.
Explore Exploratorium’s collection of hands-on eclipse activities here →