Detroit metro area gets ready for eclipse viewings
On April 8, a total solar eclipse is expected to grab the attention of millions of people across the U.S. for 4 minutes and 28 seconds in certain areas. There won't be another coast-to-coast eclipse until 2045.
So to celebrate, Detroit and metro area parks, libraries and science centers will host viewing events to not only educate people about the eclipse, but to also help them view it safely.
Cranbrook Institute of Science's event still has tickets remaining, said representatives, who said there was a problem with registration. Here's a list of places to view the eclipse. And while people in Michigan will not be able to see the complete eclipse, many places will still offer free solar eclipse glasses and activities.
Saturday, April 6
Explore the Eclipse! at Elmwood Park Library, Detroit
The Elmwood Park Library is giving all participants a free pair of eclipse glasses during its Explore the Eclipse! event, which is part of its STEM Challenges around the Solar Eclipse program, 2-3 p.m. April 6, at the library, 550 Chene, Detroit. Reserve a spot here.
April 7
Solar Eclipse Celebration
The Ann Arbor Hands-On Museum is offering astronomy lessons via activity tables to help everyone get ready for the first total solar eclipse since 2017. 200 E. Ann St., Ann Arbor. (734) 995-5439. 11 a.m.-3 p.m. Free
April 8
Partial Solar Eclipse at Cranbrook Institute of Science
From 11 a.m.-4 p.m., Cranbrook's science center will host a viewing party for a partial solar eclipse. Several hands-on activities are planned and astronomers with a state-of-the-art telescope will be in attendance. Activities are free with the purchase of general admission. Register here.
Solar Eclipse Watch Party, hosted by Detroit Riverfront Conservancy, Outdoor Adventure Center and Huron Clinton Metroparks
From 2-4 p.m., view the solar eclipse at 99% totality at Cullen Plaza in Detroit. The eclipse will come into view at 1:58 p.m. and reach 99% totality at 3:14 p.m., said the Conservancy on its website. Attendees will get a free pair of viewing glasses while supplies last and themed snacks such as Sun Chips and Moon Pies. A large telescope will be on hand for viewing with staff from the Huron Clinton Metroparks. You'll be able to view a demo of the solar eclipse and go on a planet walk with staff from the Outdoor Adventure Center. 2-4 p.m., Cullen Plaza, 1340 Atwater St. Pre-registration is required here.
Michigan Science Center and Ford House Solar Eclipse Viewing Party
Ford House and the Michigan Science Center have joined forces to host an "awe-inspiring spectacle of the solar eclipse" at the Ford House from noon-4:30 p.m., rain or shine. Family friendly events include arts and crafts and a build a moon base camp. Tickets are $7 for adults; $5 for children 12 and younger. The price includes a pair of solar eclipse glasses. Want a fuller experience? An exclusive VIP package is available, which includes admission, a pair of solar eclipse sunglasses, a special gift from the Michigan Science Center, two wine glasses, a bottle of Heron Hill’s Eclipse wine, and light bites for two guests. All of this is available for just $50 for members of Michigan Science Center and Ford House and $60 for non-members. Friends of Ford House and Michigan Science Center members may secure general admission tickets at no cost and will receive a discount on the VIP package. 1100 Lake Shore Road, Grosse Pointe Shores. (313) 884-4222. Visit here for tickets.
Detroit Public Library viewings:
View the (Almost) total Solar Eclipse
At the Detroit Public Library's Knapp location, about 90% of the total solar eclipse will be seen, if the weather cooperates, says the library's website. Eclipse glasses and a telescope will be on hand, along with a live stream from NASA of the event if the sky isn't clear. No registration required. 1:30-4:30 p.m., 13330 Conant. (313) 481-1770.
Solar Eclipse Viewing Party
From 3-5 p.m. at Detroit Public Library's Sherwood Forest branch, visitors can watch NASA's live broadcast or watch outside using free eclipse glasses. There will also be crafts to help celebrate. 7117 W. Seven Mile. Free
Solar Eclipse Viewing & Make-It Take It Solar System Craft
The Jefferson Branch will host a viewing from 1:30-2:30 p.m. Glasses will be provided. 12350 Outer Drive East, Detroit. Free
Solar Eclipse Fun Day
The Main Detroit Public Library will host its event from noon- 5 p.m, with eclipse glasses available and make and take activities for children. 5201 Woodward. Free.
Ypsilanti District Library events:
Eclipse Viewing Party — Superior and Whittaker branches
Head to the Superior and Whittaker branches for viewing parties that include eclipse glasses, 2:30-3:30 p.m. The Superior branch is at 1900 Harris Road, Superior Township, and the Whittaker branch is at 5577 Whittaker Road, Ypsilanti Township. Free.
Ann Arbor
Leslie Science & Nature Center
The center is celebrating the solar eclipse 1:30-4:30 in it StarLab, where visitors can see nocturnal life, play with activity tables and watch the eclipse with viewing glasses that are included with the purchase of a $5 ticket. To register, visit here.
Macomb County
Solar Eclipse Viewing at all Warren Library branches
From 2-4 p.m., view the solar eclipse and enjoy crafts for children. A limit of two pairs of glasses per library card holder will be available while supplies last. Registration required at the Civic Center Library, Burnette Library Branch and Busch Branch Library.
Toledo
Total Eclipse at the Zoo
The Toledo Zoo is hosting this event from 10 a.m.-4 p.m., with several activities for all ages that include music, a bounce house, animal demonstrations, character meet and greets and more. A sensory-friendly area will be available in the ProMedica Museum of Natural History. For more information, visit here.