Total Eclipse Indiana 2024

Holcomb Observatory with diamond ring effect of total solar eclipse superimposed on background.

Eclipse Viewing Experience – April 8th – Noon to 4:30 PM

Partial Eclipse Begins*Total Eclipse BeginsMaximum TotalityTotal Eclipse EndsPartial Eclipse Ends
1:50:39 PM3:06:11 PM3:08:02 PM3:09:52 PM4:23:14 PM
*The times given above are for Butler University in Indianapolis, you can find phases and times of the eclipse  for your particular location here

On April 8th (Noon to 4:30PM) come and immerse yourself in an exceptional FREE experience at  our ECLIPSE VIEWING EXPERIENCE set against the stunning backdrop of Holcomb Observatory’s lush green surroundings. Join us at this unique destination to revel in the splendor of this extraordinary celestial event, particularly if you’re a passionate astronomy enthusiast!

Holcomb Observatory and Planetarium is excited to once again be your foremost choice for all things astronomy as we approach the eagerly anticipated major celestial occurrence. On eclipse day, provided the weather is favorable, we eagerly anticipate introducing you to our Eclipse Viewing Experience. This grand celebration will showcase a diverse array of captivating eclipse-related activities that you won’t want to miss.

In the weeks leading up to the eclipse, we will provide an array of public programs to prepare you for this celestial phenomenon.

A telescope with a safe solar filter attached

On the day of the eclipse, you can expect these unique offerings:

  • More than a dozen telescopes, all equipped with solar filters for safe observation.
  • Opportunities to safely witness solar activity, including sunspots.
  • The availability of eclipse glasses to ensure your viewing safety while supplies last. $2 each cash or credit, please. Purchases can be made at the door on Saturday and Sunday from 12-9PM and Monday beginning at 10AM.
  • The presence of many scientific experts who will be on hand to answer your questions and guide you through the eclipse.
  • Our eclipse veterans will provide guidance via a sound system, on information during the eclipse and understanding its essential elements.
  • Engaging demonstrations showcasing various safe eclipse observation techniques.
  • Fascinating planetarium shows (From now up to the day of the eclipse)
  • A live stream of the eclipse.
  • National Center for Atmospheric Research solar scientists will be present to with demonstrations and collecting data on the solar corona during the eclipse, as part of a multi-million dollar community science project funded by NASA and the NSF.
  • Music will be played throughout the event.
  • Food trucks will be available at the event.
  • Chatham Tap restaurant (at the parking garage) will be open for lunch beginning at 11AM.
  • Free parking available at the Sunset Avenue parking garage and Hinkle Fieldhouse.
  • For those Visitors with an ADA (Americans with Disabilities Act) license plate, state ADA placard/hangtag, or an Indiana Disabled Veteran license plate may utilize any available ADA parking spot on the University. Lake Road and Garden Road will be closed to all vehicles. You must, however, be the driver of the vehicle or be the passenger. The placard/hang tag must also be valid (not expired) and be visible. Not doing so could result in a citation.”ct) license. For further accessibility information or to request disability-related accommodations, please visit butler.edu/event-accommodations.
  • For those who will arrive on campus in larger vehicles that will NOT fit in our parking garage, please email Holcomb Observatory in advance to ensure that parking will be available.

Furthermore, we are proud to have a team of scientific experts and seasoned veterans of previous total solar eclipses on hand. They will be here to enlighten you about the eclipse, provide valuable insights on what to watch for as totality approaches, and offer guidance throughout the entire event, from its inception to its conclusion.

Graphic of eclipse with text: Late January through April 8th. Get ready for the spectacle. Eclipse. The Sun Revealed. Learn the techniques for safely observing the eclipse and gain insights into what to watch for!

Although we are several months away from this remarkable celestial occurrence, Holcomb Observatory and Planetarium is committed to delivering educational programming and events dedicated to this eclipse. These offerings will commence well in advance of the total eclipse and continue on the day of the event itself.  Be sure to explore our current lineup of eclipse programming to equip yourself for what promises to be the Super Bowl of astronomical events.

For accessibility information or to request disability-related accommodations, please visit butler.edu/event-accommodations.

Join us for an unforgettable experience as we celebrate this extraordinary event together.

If you’re interested in gaining further insights into the upcoming eclipse, please join us for one of our public open evenings at the Holcomb Observatory starting in late January.

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