*As of 11:35am on April 5, 2024, all library locations have run out of eclipse glasses. Thanks for coming by to pick yours up - we hope you enjoy them!*
Starting on Wednesday, April 3, all Madison Public Library locations will be giving away FREE eclipse glasses while supplies last!
On Monday, April 8, portions of North America will experience a total solar eclipse, while we'll have a partial eclipse here in Madison. The peak will happen around 2:06pm and will see about 86.8% coverage. The April 8 eclipse be the last one visible in the United States until 2044. Make sure you're ready to experience this natural phenomenon and pick your glasses up while supplies last! Learn more about the science behind the eclipse and its path across the sky on NASA's website.
Here are some ways to enjoy the eclipse locally:
All About the 2024 Solar Eclipse
Date & Time: April 2, 6pm
Location: Stoughton Public Library [304 S 4th St, Stoughton, WI 53589]
This talk will discuss the causes of eclipses and the circumstances of this years upcoming eclipse, with advice on how to plan to see it. We'll also discuss various ways of safely observing the eclipse. Presenter Jim Lattis holds a Ph.D. in History of Science from UW–Madison and is the author of many publications in that field. He helped create UW Space Place, the outreach and public education center of the UW–Madison Astronomy Department and has directed it since its founding. He manages historic Washburn Observatory, teaches courses in introductory astronomy and its history, gives frequent public talks, and consults widely for the media (including UW Communications, Wisconsin and National Public Radio, and other national networks and newspapers). He has also led many trips focused on astronomical tourism.
This is a free, in-person event hosted by the Stoughton Public Library. Registration is not required, but is welcome. REGISTER
Solar Eclipse Viewing Party
Date & Time: April 8, 12-3pm
Location: Monona Public Library [1000 Nichols Rd, Madison, WI 53716]
View the Solar Eclipse from the Monona Public Library!
- Live Stream of the TOTAL SOLAR ECLIPSE
- Hands-on activities
- Explore tactile art representations of the Sun's corona with your hands!
- Free! Drop-in! No Registration Necessary! All Ages!
UWM Manfred Olson Planetarium viewing
Date & Time: April 8, 1-3 p.m.
Location: UWM Union Ballroom & Spaights Plaza [1900 E Kenwood Blvd #139, Milwaukee, WI 53211]
Everyone is invited to this event at UWM, which comes complete with free pizza, cookies and beverages. The university will also have a photo station, an eclipse glasses decorating area and other crafts.
Milwaukee Public Museum viewing
Date & Time: April 8, 12:30-3 p.m.
Location: Outside MPM by the Green Clock on Wells Street [800 W Wells St, Milwaukee, WI 53233]
MPM is providing telescopes with special filters and eclipse glasses for $2 each.
Solar Eclipse Viewing at Schlitz
Date & Time: April 8, 12:30-3:30 p.m.
Location: Schlitz Audubon Nature Center [1111 E Brown Deer Rd, Bayside, WI 53217]
Naturalists at the center will be around to assist viewers with seeing the eclipse and answer questions. The event will take place on the Veranda. Officials said the host will project the sun through a solar scope onto poster board.