One of our solar system’s most awe-inspiring events will be on full display for many lucky Americans next week:  a total eclipse of the sun.  And visitors to Ste. Geneviève National Historical Park will get a front-row seat!

Next Monday April 8, people who live in a broad swath of the U.S. will be able to watch as the moon slowly obscures the sun.  The lucky ones, including those in southwestern Missouri, will witness up to a four-minute window of “totality” when the sun is completely covered by the moon’s shadow. 

A total eclipse occurs somewhere on Earth only once every one-and-a-half years. The next one to pass over Missouri is predicted for 2045. However, only a tiny portion of the state will be in totality then.  So now’s the time to catch it!

The little town of Ste. Geneviève is getting ready for a full day of eclipse events next Monday.  Various local groups, including staff from Ste. Genevieve National Historical Park, will host a “viewing event” at the county community center (21390 Highway 32 Ste. Genevieve, MO) from 10:00 am to 4:00 pm.  The period of actual totality starts at 1:59 p.m.  Event activities include:

• Learning about the eclipse from knowledgeable experts, including park rangers.
• “Hearing” the eclipse through an innovative LightSound device developed by Harvard astronomers that translates light into sound.
• Purchasing specially designed Eclipse 2024 products and eclipse glasses from JNPA.
• Enjoying food trucks and trolley rides.
• Marveling at the total eclipse with the community of Ste. Genevieve, MO!

In addition, kids can pick up a solar filter and an Eclipse Explorer Junior Ranger book (after completing the book, they’ll receive a special badge). Fourth graders with a printed voucher can also pick up an Every Kid Outdoors pass.

For more details, check out the park’s solar eclipse page.  We hope to see you in Ste. Gen!