Total Eclipse of the Heartside?

Residents of Grand Rapids will be able to witness an eclipse on April 8, 2024.

The Grand Rapids Public Museum is inviting members of the public to witness a “rare and awe-inspiring” event at its Total Solar Eclipse Party. The day will be filled with astronomy and sun-themed educational activities.

A total solar eclipse occurs when the Moon is in between Earth and the Sun, and it completely blocks the surface of the Sun, with only the faint circle of the corona visible around the outside circumference of the Moon.

So, will there be a total eclipse of the Heartside? Not quite. Here in Grand Rapids, the eclipse will not result in 100% coverage, as it will in some parts of Ohio, Indiana and other states. The partial eclipse begins at 1:55 p.m. and reaches peak coverage at 3:11 p.m. Visitors can watch live streams from partner locations in the Meijer Theater and safely observe the eclipse through special solar telescopes on the Blue Bridge. (It’s not safe to look directly at the Sun.)

Find out more about what’s on offer at the GRPM Eclipse Party by visiting the museum’s website .