Astronomy Society leader shares eclipse insights
An official with the Richland Astronomy Society is sharing her expertise and personal experiences as the awaited April 8 solar eclipse approaches.
Deloris Mlay, president of the group, led an informative presentation at the Pioneer Career and Technology Center in Shelby earlier in the winter.
This event, organized by the Richland County Emergency Management Agency, aimed to provide insight and preparedness tips for the upcoming solar eclipse.
Mlay shared her knowledge and personal experiences with those eager to learn more about this rare celestial phenomenon.
The presentation offered invaluable information for astronomy enthusiasts, curious locals, and those looking to plan ahead for this once-in-a-lifetime occurrence. Mlay commenced her presentation by recounting her own experience during the solar eclipse of 2017 in Gallatin, Tenn.
“We went to a state park in Gallatin, Tennessee. We planned this over a year earlier than the eclipse,” Mlay said.
The Tennessee eclipse drew thousands of eclipse chasers from around the world, with visitors hailing from countries such as England, Japan, and Australia.
Mlay emphasized that the 2024 eclipse is expected to bring a similar influx of eclipse enthusiasts to the United States. She suggested that airports in Columbus and Cleveland might see an influx of travelers making a vacation out of this celestial event.
Mlay vividly described
the atmosphere at the 2017 eclipse event, where thousands of people gathered in the park.
“There were about 5,000 people there. And when the eclipse actually happened, you can’t imagine,” she said.
“If you never experienced
it, it is an experience unto its own. You will never be able to experience anything like this again, ever, unless you go chasing another eclipse,” Mlay said.