Experience the Solar Eclipse in Cortland County
Get ready for an astronomical adventure as Cortland County gears up to witness the breathtaking 2024 solar eclipse on April 8, 2024! While very close to a total eclipse, Cortland will only have the disk of the sun 99% covered by the moon’s shadow. If you're planning to partake in the events or looking to enhance the experience, here’s a guide to make the most of it.
DIY Eclipse Viewer
March 27, 6-8pm
Center for the Arts of Homer
72 S Main St, Homer
Join Center Director Ty Marshal to learn how to make your own Eclipse Viewer. You, too, can make a simple DIY eclipse viewer with a box, some tin foil, and a few household craft supplies. By the end of the workshop, you'll have a safe, effective way to view the eclipse without damaging your eyesight and an understanding of how the viewer works to protect your eyes from direct sunlight. Since it's a free event, spaces might be limited. Ensure you register early. Click here for details.
A Day Without a Night and a Night Without a Day!
April 4, 6-8pm
Center for the Arts of Homer
72 S Main St, Homer
Lime Hollow Nature Center Presents A Day Without a Night and a Night Without a Day: Observing and Understanding the 2024 Total Solar Eclipse. Join Luke Keller, Professor of Physics and Astronomy of Ithaca College at the Center of the Arts on April 4 for a free educational series. This series will cover not just the how-to of eclipse viewing but also the why—why eclipses happen, their history, and their significance in science and culture. This series includes live lectures and Q&A sessions, so come prepared with your eclipse questions. Click here for details.
Grab Your Glasses
Cortland County Vistors Bureau
42 Main Street, Cortland
THE BIG DAY
Sun, Moon & Room
Hope Lake Lodge
2000 State Route 392, Cortland
Traveling on the day of the eclipse will be hectic at best. We recommend booking a stay at Hope Lake Lodge for their Sun, Moon & Room package. Staying on the highest peak in Cortland County promises you an uninterrupted view of the celestial spectacle. After a day of excitement, consider unwinding at the lodge’s spa. It's a great way to relax while reflecting on the astronomical event you just witnessed. Use your stay as an opportunity to explore other attractions in Cortland County. Nature trails, local cuisine, and historical sites can complement your eclipse experience. Click here for a list of nearby attractions.
Experience the Eclipse
Lime Hollow Nature Center
338 McLean Rd. Cortland
Pack a picnic, and grab your glasses, the big day is here! Visitors can park at any of Lime Hollow's trailheads to find a place to enjoy the eclipse. A limited supply of solar eclipse viewing glasses will be available at the Visitor Center (338 McLean Rd.) on a first-come, first-serve basis. On April 8, 2024, the eclipse will occur from 2:08 to 4:34 p.m. EST, while the maximum eclipse will be visible starting at 3:23:24 p.m. in Cortland County. We recommend you get to your viewing spot early. Even though Cortland will experience a 99% eclipse, which is incredibly close to the total, finding a good spot can make a difference in your viewing experience. Please respect the nature center, and always pack out whatever you bring in to enjoy this experience. Click here for more information.
ECLIPSE VIEWING TIPS
- Safety First: Use the eclipse viewer you made during the workshop or eclipse glasses that meet the ISO 12312-2 international standard. Never look directly at the sun without proper protection, even if it's 99% covered.
- Social Aspect: Enjoy the communal vibe. One of the unique aspects of eclipse viewing is the shared experience with those around you. It’s an excellent opportunity to take photos and make new friends.
- Photography: If you're interested in photographing the eclipse, research the correct techniques and necessary filters for your camera. Never point an unprotected camera at the sun, as it can damage the sensor.
- Weather Preparedness: April weather can be unpredictable. Dress in layers and be prepared for sudden changes in weather.
- Eye Safety: Emphasize eye safety not just during the eclipse's peak but throughout the entire event. Even during a 99% eclipse, the sliver of sun that's visible can cause eye damage.
Enjoy the awe and wonder of the solar eclipse in Cortland County! Whether you’re a seasoned astronomer or a curious newbie, the eclipse offers a moment of connection with the cosmos that’s truly unforgettable. For the most up-to-date details, visit www.experiencecortland.com/cortland-county-solar-eclipse-2024
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