MEDIA ADVISORY: MU to Host American Astronomical Society Planning Workshop for 2017 Total Solar Eclipse

August 22nd, 2014

WHAT: A total solar eclipse of the sun will sweep across the U.S. continent on Aug. 21, 2017. The eclipse, with a total duration of 90 minutes, includes an area of “greatest duration” that falls directly above Columbia, Mo. This is the location where the total eclipse will last the longest along its entire path.

In preparation for the event, MU will host the American Astronomical Society 2017 Total Solar Eclipse in the U.S. Planning Workshop. The planning session will allow national scientists and astronomers the chance to plan important observation and public outreach  activities.

“During the 2017 eclipse, the moon’s shadow will cross the continental United States and  will offer unique scientific opportunities for the U.S. physics community,” said Angela Speck, professor of astrophysics and director of astronomy in the College of Arts and Science at MU. “Mizzou lies within the path of the eclipse which means about 35,000 students will experience the longest totality of the event at lunch on the first day of the   2017 Fall Semester.”

Planning officials attending the eclipse workshop will arrange scientific talks, plan  science and amateur astronomer outreach workshops and ways to communicate safe  viewing of the eclipse.

WHERE: Physics Building, MU Campus

WHEN: Thursday, Aug. 21 – Friday, Aug. 22, 2014

NOTE: Registration is now open: $150 for participants, which includes meals.

During lunch on Thursday, attendees will participate in a solar viewing in downtown Columbia using binoculars and telescopes equipped with solar filters.

For more details visit http://aas.org/education/outreach/eclipse-2017

For more information, please contact Angela Speck, speckan@missouri.edu.