A solar eclipse is set to soar the sky on Saturday, Oct. 14, crossing North, Central and South America. In the United States, the eclipse will be most prominent in Oregon, Nevada, Arizona, Utah, New Mexico and Texas.
Idaho residents in the southwestern region have a chance to witness the spectacle but there are very sparse viewing parties in the area.
According to Eclipse 2024, the eclipse in Boise and surrounding areas will be partial with a 90% magnitude.
Boise State Physics’ Central Idaho Dark Sky Reserve STEM Network will be hosting a viewing event next Saturday. The last visible eclipse in Idaho happened in 2012, and the next annular eclipse will not be visible for another 23 years.
Solar eclipse glasses will be available to those who donate to the PonyUp campaign.
Doors will open at 7:30 a.m. and the eclipse viewing begins at 9:30 a.m. The Boise State Alumni have more registration and donation information online.
The Boise Astronomical Society is also hosting an eclipse viewing party at Kleiner Park from 9 a.m. to 11:30 a.m. This will be be a public event. Telescopes and eclipse glasses will be provided at the event.
For those looking to view the eclipse online or on social media, the local Facebook page Idaho Weather Watchers has seen a plethora of conversations discussing best locations and practices for an eventful eclipse viewing experience.
Some people have commented they are driving to Nevada, Crater Lake, Oregon, some of the Mighty Five Parks in Utah and Ship Rock in New Mexico to get a better view of the eclipse.
Remember to wear eye protection throughout the duration of the eclipse. There will be sites streaming the event as well for those who wish to watch from home.
