See the eclipse at Shakopee Public Library

Shakopee Valley News

Many ancient cultures believed eclipses were generally bad things.

Some believed the moon was being attacked by demons or jaguars, according to a National Geographic article. Now, many people feel fortunate to be able to view the eclipse right from where they live and host viewing parties and events celebrating the celestial event.

One such event will be held at Shakopee Public Library from 11:30 a.m. to 2:30 p.m. on the date of the eclipse, Monday, Aug. 21.

"It's a great way to learn more about our planet, our universe," said Ally Addison, a youth services subject specialist for the Scott County Library.

With a solar eclipse, the moon covers the sun. In a total solar eclipse the corona, which is not normally viewable, becomes visible, according to NASA.

The path of totality starts in Oregon, cutting down through Missouri and finishing the United States path in South Carolina. Though the path of totality is rather small, the entire United States will experience a partial eclipse, including Minnesota.

Though solar eclipses are not uncommon, they rarely appear in the same place on the earth's surface. The last time a solar eclipse was viewable in this magnitude in the United States was 1918, according to a Forbes article.

"It's really a once-in-a-lifetime event for most people," Addison said.

The partial eclipse in Shakopee will start to be seen around 11:45 a.m. and end around 3:30 p.m., with the maximum eclipse taking place at 1 p.m.

The Shakopee Public Library will host games and arts and crafts prior to the eclipse in the meeting room. Attendees are encouraged to bring their own lunch.

One of these crafts includes making a pinhole viewer, which is one of the ways NASA recommends to safely view the eclipse due to the concentrated solar rays which can damage eyes. A pinhole viewer ensures the user is not looking directly at the sun.

Another way to view the eclipse is with special glasses, 150 of which the Shakopee Public Library will distribute on a first-come, first-served basis with a limit of one per person.

Those in the path of totality are able to take off protective eyewear and view the eclipse for a limited amount of time, when the moon completely covers the surface of the sun. However, those in Minnesota will have to wear or use safety measures at all times to avoid damage.

"The activities are a little bit designed more for kids and families, but it's open to anyone who wants to have this once-in-a-lifetime event happen," Addison said.

If there is bad weather and the eclipse isn't viewable outside, the library will livestream the eclipse indoors. More information can be found on the event's website.