Total Solar Eclipse 2017
Would you like to share your photos with the City of Union? If so, email them to wparsons@unionmissouri.org.
Thank you for visiting!
On Monday, August 21, 2017, a total eclipse of the Sun will be visible in the continental United States for the first time in almost 40 years. A total eclipse is when the Sun is completely hidden by the Moon, the sky becomes dark, and the Sun’s faint atmosphere (corona) becomes visible—looking like a beautiful halo. This total eclipse will only be visible on a narrow track stretching across the United States from Oregon to South Carolina.
Fortunate for us, Union is located right smack in the middle of this narrow strip, allowing viewers here to see 100% total solar eclipse for a duration of 2 minutes and 37 seconds. The eclipse event will begin at 11:48 a.m. with a partial eclipse, and reaching totality at 1:15:34 p.m., then remaining in total eclipse until 1:18:11 p.m.
What’s the Best Location for Seeing the Total Eclipse?
There is no simple answer to this question. The ideal place to be is on the center line where the weather is usually clear. The “wild card” is undoubtedly going to be the weather.
For our Union residents, you can simply stay home and have a great view. UPDATE as of 8/10/2017: Schools in the area, including Union, St. Clair and Washington have decided to close school on August 21, East Central College is organizing private viewing events for students and staff. If, however, you enjoy sharing the experience with multitudes of eclipse-chasers, there are several viewing events organized in Union and surrounding communities along the totality path.
TOUR THE GREAT AMERICAN ECLIPSE HERE! Pick your spot and make sure you have alternate plans.
Alternate viewing location map
East Central College Eclipse Parking Map
Our viewing event will be a "Picnic in the Dark" and will be held at Veterans Memorial Park. The 42-acre park offers covered pavilions, restrooms, playgrounds and a splash park. It is also handicap accessible. Although we will have some concessions selling food and drink, we highly encourage you to come prepared with plenty of food and drink for your own party. We expect a large crowd and vendors may run out of supplies. Also, keep in mind, there are no organized activities or entertainment venues. Come as you are, celebrate your way. Coolers are welcome • Pack a lunch • BYOB. Also consider bringing games and activities, shade, sunscreen, blankets/chairs, and don't forget your eclipse viewing glasses. Our glasses are SOLD OUT!
NEVER LOOK AT THE PARTIAL PHASES OF THE ECLIPSE WITHOUT PROPER EYE PROTECTION! Purchase Custom Union, MO Custom Eclipse Viewing glasses at Union City Hall for $1 each. SOLD OUT!
Checklist:
- Drinks & Snacks, Sunscreen, sunglasses, hats & shade (umbrella, tent)
- Folding chairs and/or blankets
- Eclipse Viewing Glasses (available at City Hall for $1)
- Reliable/Accurate timekeeper, radio, watch, phone
Optional:
- Pinhole projector
- Camera and/or binoculars with proper filters
- Games/Activities
Union, MO is a great place for U to be on August 21, 2017.
Documents
Personal Eclipse Planner - customized for Union, MO
NASA Solar Eclipse Safety Handout
Eclipse Glasses Use Instructions and Timeline for Union, MO