Brock to hold free community solar eclipse event

Brock University is offering the community a place to view the April 8 solar eclipse and to learn about it.

The St. Catharines university will hold a free community event called Eclipse on the Escarpment, put on by the mathematics and science faculty.

Beginning at noon, a variety of educational exhibits will be available in the Ian Beddis Gymnasium, located on the main level of the Walker Complex. These exhibits are led by researchers, educators and experts in biology, chemistry, computer science, earth sciences, English language and literature, interactive arts and science, physics and other areas.

There will be informational demonstrations and discussions.

After this, there will be a community viewing of the total solar eclipse at Alumni Field.

The totality of the eclipse will happen from 3:18 p.m. to 3:21 p.m.

Faculty and staff will be available to discuss the eclipse and help guide the use of on-site viewing apparatuses, such as pinhole projectors and Sun Spotter solar telescopes. Complimentary certified eclipse glasses will be available, while quantities last. People are encouraged to bring their own if they have them.

“The eclipse is a wonderful opportunity for Brock University to engage members of the local community in math and science,” said department of physics chair and professor Thad Harroun in a news release.

“The educational exhibits will feature interesting topics related to the eclipse and our solar system, and our place within it. Our researchers and experts are looking forward to talking about their work and sharing their passions with others.”

People interested in attending the event are asked to register on Brock’s website or via email to eclipse2024@brocku.ca.

The totality of the eclipse will happen from 3:18 p.m. to 3:21 p.m.