Events

Solar Eclipse Viewing Event to Take Place in Gaithersburg on April 8

By MCS Staff


“Turn your eyes skyward and enjoy the amazing sites from Observatory Park, home to the historic Gaithersburg Latitude Observatory.” The Onservatiry will be hosting a viewing event for the solar eclipse on Monday, April 8 from 2pm until 4:30pm.


Per the City of Gaithersburg: “Observatory Park will be dark, but please do not bring a bright flashlight; bring a red light as it will be less intrusive to other watchers. Red cellophane will be available to cover any white light flashlights. Adjust the brightness of electronic devices.

Limited parking for those with accessibility tags is available onsite. Parking is also available at the field at the corner of DeSellum & Rt. 355 – 2 blocks from the park. Feel free to bring a blanket or folding chair for your comfort & snacks to enjoy during the events. Portable bathrooms will be available. There is no running water in the park. Alcohol is not permitted at events in City parks.

Events at Observatory Park could be cancelled or modified at the last moment if conditions, including inclement weather & cloud cover, are not conducive to Skywatching. Please check the Community Museum Facebook page for last minute announcements. Those who pre-register will receive an email with event changes.

Additional Skywatch programs may be planned depending on weather, staffing, and public interest. Please contact the Gaithersburg Community Museum to express interest in additional Skywatch programming.”

Partial Solar Eclipse: Monday, April 8, 2024 • 2 – 4:30 p.m: The 2024 Solar Eclipse will be visible in Gaithersburg with near totality at 90%. Observatory Park will be open with solar related activities and free solar glasses while supplies last. An eclipse is the universe at its most dramatic and they don’t often cross the continental U.S. so please join us for this exciting event.