View the Solar Eclipse at the FSW James & Barbara Moore Observatory
Jul 31, 2017
JULY 31, 2017 – PUNTA GORDA, FLA – Skygazers can enjoy a solar eclipse-viewing experience from 1:30-4 p.m. on Monday, Aug. 21, at the James & Barbara Moore Observatory located on the Florida SouthWestern State College (FSW) Charlotte Campus, 26300 Airport Road, Punta Gorda. The viewing is free and open to the public.
The solar eclipse will take place on Monday, Aug. 21, from 1:18 p.m. – 4:14 p.m., peaking at 83.3 percent coverage at 2:50 p.m.
“We will have three or four telescopes with proper filters available for use and limited eyeglass filters, so we are encouraging participants to bring their own certified eclipse glasses or hand-held solar viewers,” said David Hanson, Observatory Director.
Safety tips for viewing the solar eclipse and how to purchase certified eclipse glasses and hand-held solar viewers can be found on the NASA website at https://eclipse2017.nasa.gov/safety.
“Even if people can't make it to the observatory, they should try to see what's happening,” Hanson said. “The view is the same from anywhere in the state, but proper safety filters are required wherever you are located.”
Beginning in September 2017, the James & Barbara Moore Observatory will be open to the public the third Friday of each month. Observation sessions typically begin about 30-45 minutes after dark. For more information or for a full schedule of observatory events, call (941) 637-5652 or visit https://www.fsw.edu/charlotte/observatory.
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Florida SouthWestern State College is Southwest Florida’s largest and one of the most affordable institutions of higher education. Annually serving nearly 22,000 students globally, FSW offers a variety of nationally-ranked, career-focused academic programs with two- and four-year degrees, and professional certifications. Students are also active in clubs and programs catered to their interests. FSW debuted its intercollegiate athletics program in January 2016. Visit www.FSW.edu for more information.
Last Updated: July 31, 2017
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