Solar eclipse events at conservation area

A total solar eclipse of the moon will be partially visible to viewers in Essex County on Aug. 21 and to mark the occasion, the John R. Park Homestead Conservation Area in Essex is hosting a Total Eclipse of the Park (Homestead) event. Family friendly activities begin at 1 p.m. with an introduction to eclipses, followed by lightand shadow-inspired activities, including viewing an eclipse the old-fashioned way through a pinhole projector, making a sundial, communicating with light signals and having fun with the homestead’s shadow theatre. Visitors are encouraged to bring camp chairs, blankets and picnic baskets and relax on the homestead’s front lawn and watch the eclipse. The peak of the eclipse will be visible at approximately 2:27 p.m. The total solar eclipse, where the moon completely covers the sun, will be visible from Oregon to South Carolina. The partial eclipse will be visible in this area. “We are lucky enough to be in an area that will experience an 80 (per cent) eclipse,” said Kris Ives, homestead curator/education co-ordinator. NASA-approved eclipse viewing glasses will be provided. Ives said proper eye protection must be used when viewing a solar eclipse. Standard sunglasses do not provide enough protection. Admission is $10. Preregistration is required. To register visit: jrpheclipse2017.eventbrite.ca. Following the eclipse event, an outdoor yoga session with a celestial theme will take place from 3 p.m. to 4 p.m. with certified yoga instructor Paul Santos. The homestead is located at 915 Essex County Rd. 50.