Solar eclipses are rare occurrences, with the next one not expected in our area until 2079. While Rhode Island may not experience a full eclipse this time around, it will still witness a significant 92 percent coverage. Various institutions across the state are hosting events to allow the public to safely view this unique celestial event.
The Cranston Public Library is hosting a Solar Eclipse Viewing Party at the William Hall Library from 3 to 4:30 p.m. Attendees can participate in lawn games and eclipse-related activities, and each patron will receive a free pair of eclipse viewing glasses while supplies last.
Brown University is also joining in the festivities with a public viewing event on the University’s College Green from 2 to 4 p.m. Scientists and volunteers will be on hand to answer questions and provide specialized telescopes for safe viewing. Eclipse glasses will be available on a first-come, first-served basis.
In North Scituate, the Seagrave Memorial Observatory will be open for observing the solar eclipse from 2 to 4:30 p.m. Limited eclipse glasses and solar telescopes will be available to the public, with a live feed of the total eclipse projected in the meeting hall.
The Museum of Natural History in Roger Williams Park is hosting a free eclipse watch party from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m., providing hands-on activities and complimentary eclipse viewing glasses to each family. Free museum admission will also be included.
For those in East Providence, the East Providence Public Library is holding an Eclipse Viewing Party from 2 to 4:45 p.m. with eclipse glasses, activities, and a food truck on-site. Additionally, the Community College of Rhode Island is hosting watch parties at all four campuses between 1–4 p.m.
If you can’t make it to an in-person event, the Frosty Drew Observatory will be live streaming the entire eclipse starting at 1 p.m., allowing viewers to experience the stages of the eclipse and insightful commentary from Frosty Drew Astronomy Team members across the nation.
