MEMPHIS, Tenn. — You may have heard about the April 2024 total solar eclipse, which will cover nearly all of the sun in Memphis. But before that, another eclipse will cover up about half of the sun this October.
A solar eclipse happens when the moon passes between the sun and Earth, blocking out some sunlight. The last solar eclipse seen in Memphis was in 2017, when about 90% of the sun was blocked. The October 2023 solar eclipse will cover about 60% of the sun in Memphis.
When to watch the solar eclipse
The moon will begin to pass in front of the sun around 10:30am on Saturday morning, October 14th. Maximum eclipse will occur at Noon, when about 60% of the sun will be covered by the moon. The partial eclipse will end around 1:30pm Saturday afternoon.
Where to watch the solar eclipse
Assuming there are no clouds, the partial eclipse will be visible anywhere in the Memphis area.
Dixon Gallery & Gardens at 4339 Park Ave will have an eclipse watch party with eclipse glasses, solar telescopes, and staff from the Memphis Astronomical Society on hand.
The Bartlett Library is hosting a free watch party at WJ Freeman Park, and staff members from the University of Memphis Physics department will be on-hand to explain the science of an eclipse. Solar eclipse glasses will be provided.
How to watch the solar eclipse
You should never look directly at the sun, even when some of the sun is blocked. You can find special solar eclipse glasses at several areas stores or online, which when worn correctly, allow you to look directly at the sun. Sunglasses do not work the same as solar eclipse glasses, and are NOT a safe way to watch the eclipse.
For a full list of where to find solar eclipse glasses in the Memphis area, click here.
