Eclipse Events Scheduled Around Morris County: See What's Going On

MORRIS COUNTY, NJ — The upcoming total solar eclipse on April 8 has people abuzz with excitement, even though Morris County won't be in the path of totality. And for those who want to really take in this spectacle, there are several fun and educational eclipse-related events going on around the county.

The maximum eclipse is estimated around 3:25 p.m. on Monday, April 8 in Morris County. The moon will cover about 91 percent of the sun at the peak of the eclipse, according to a NASA map that is searchable by ZIP code.

Some New Jersey schools will dismiss students early on Monday, citing safety concerns, as the eclipse will be going on during normal dismissal time. No Morris County districts have changed their schedules as of Tuesday, April 2, though the Rockaway Valley School in Boonton has an after-school program planned for students in 5th through 8th grades.

Garden State skies will darken as if it were dawn and the Sun’s corona, or outer atmosphere, will be visible, NASA said in a statement. Eye safety will be the number one priority when viewing a total solar eclipse, and those seeking to look directly at the phenomenon must wear specialized eye protection designed for solar viewing, the agency said.

Here are some places to see the eclipse on Monday:

Morris Museum

The Morris Museum Astronomical Society will set up a telescope for observation on the parking deck, and have a live Internet feed of the eclipse in the theatre. Programming runs from 1:30 to 4 p.m. Free with RSVP. 6 Normandy Heights Road, Morristown, NJ 07960.

South Branch Preserve

The Land Conservancy of New Jersey will have free viewing glasses, snacks, and activities from 2 to 4:30 p.m. Bring a blanket or chair to make yourself comfortable for the eclipse viewing. Free with RSVP. 56-60 Wolfe Rd, Budd Lake, NJ 07828.

Riverdale Public Library

Grab a snack and a drink and your eclipse glasses, and watch the celestial marvel with neighbors at the library. People will be gathered from 3:15 to 4:30 p.m., and ages 4 and up are welcome. Event is free; no RSVP required. 93 Newark Pompton Turnpike, Riverdale NJ, 07457.

An event at the Boonton Holmes library has reached capacity, organizers said.

Also, the Longo Planetarium at County College of Morris is showing "Totality: Great American Eclipse 2024" on select Fridays and Saturdays through May 11. This 45-minute show explores the science of how eclipses of the sun and moon occur, and how to see them. It is recommended for ages 8 and up. Tickets are $10.