The Mayborn Museum invites you to witness the upcoming solar eclipse in Waco, Texas. As the Moon slides between the Sun and the Earth, casting a shadow on our city, science and spectacle converge in a beautiful reminder of our vast universe.
The Science Behind the Eclipse:
To understand the magic of a total solar eclipse, we dive into the intricate orbital relationship between the Sun, Moon, and Earth. Eclipses occur when the moon, in its elliptical orbit, aligns perfectly with the Sun and Earth. During this alignment, the moon casts its shadow on Earth, plunging a small area into temporary darkness—a phenomenon that has intrigued scientists and astronomers for centuries.
Cultural History Behind the Eclipse:
Eclipses have held cultural significance throughout history. Many societies believed total eclipses were powerful omens or divine interventions. In ancient civilizations, such as the Incas and Chinese, these occurrences were woven into their mythologies, shaping the cultural tapestry of humankind.
Safety During the Eclipse:
As with any solar event, it is crucial to prioritize safety. Observing the eclipse directly without proper eye protection can cause irreparable damage to your eyes. The Mayborn Museum has certified solar viewing glasses for sale. Visitors are also encouraged to bring their binoculars and telescopes fitted with solar filters for an even more immersive experience.
Eclipse Times - April 8, 2024
Partial eclipse start: 12:20
Total eclipse starts 1:38
Total eclipse ends 1:42
Partial eclipse ends 3:00
At the Mayborn Museum
Experience the Total Solar Eclipse at Mayborn Museum on April 8, 2024!
Get ready for an incredible day of exploration and discovery as we celebrate the April 8th Eclipse at Mayborn Museum! We're thrilled to offer a series of engaging activities that will ignite your curiosity about the sun, the moon, and the wonders of our solar system.
Eclipse Projection Message Station:
Get creative and leave your mark on the eclipse! With markers and paper provided, visitors can craft personalized messages or artworks. Then, transform your creation into a unique eclipse projector using hole punches and thumb tacks. Hold your projector up to the sun, and watch as your message is projected as a series of mesmerizing eclipse crescents, perfect for a one-of-a-kind photo opportunity.
Passive Shadow Tinker Station:
Explore the play of light and shadows with our diverse collection of objects specially chosen for eclipse viewing. From strainers to plastic baskets with holes, guests can experiment with various items to project the eclipse onto tables or the ground. Our friendly staff will be on hand to assist, ensuring an engaging experience.
"I Notice/I Wonder" Observation Posters:
Share your observations and inquiries about the eclipse on our poster boards. Using colorful markers, jot down what catches your eye or sparks your curiosity. Whether you notice something special or have questions about the eclipse, this is your chance to contribute to the collective conversation. Posters will be rotated every 30 minutes, so keep an eye out for new insights!
Eclipse Progress Observation Posters:
Witness the eclipse and document its progress with your own sketches. Guests are invited to add their drawings of the eclipse at different stages throughout the event. As the eclipse evolves, so too will the sketches on our poster boards. Capture the magic of each moment and be a part of our ongoing visual narrative.
Don't miss this unique opportunity to witness the total solar eclipse at Mayborn Museum on April 8, 2024! See you there!
Shine bright during totality with our exclusive Eclipse Merchandise! Our glow-in-the-dark Eclipse T-Shirts light up during totality, while our Eclipse glasses with Pinhole Viewer let you witness the eclipse two different ways. Crafted from images captured in our space room, these glasses offer a unique perspective of the Sun. And don't forget to grab an Eclipse Hat or our sleek 40 oz Tumbler for just $24.99. Embrace the wonder of the eclipse with us!
Mayborn's Impact
The Mayborn Eclipse 10,000 program was designed to provide an immersive and educational experience surrounding eclipses for students in Central Texas. Through this initiative, we brought the awe-inspiring experience of eclipses to over 30,000 Central Texas students. With free teacher training sessions led by Alan Small and comprehensive resource kits provided to each school, educators were empowered to create engaging eclipse day activities. The feedback has been overwhelmingly positive, highlighting the program's impact on student engagement and curiosity in STEM subjects.
