Monday, August 21: The Solar Eclipse That Captivated America
Monday, August 21: The Solar Eclipse That Captivated America
Here at AMS II, we celebrate scientific phenomena. It is our opinion that an advanced Math and Science school should relish in the opportunity to dive into unexpected natural occurrences. This summer’s unforgettable Solar Eclipse provided us with the perfect opportunity to do just that.
After weeks of solar speculation and excitement, we decided to organize an eclipse viewing party. We were well equipped with snacks, drinks, certified viewing glasses as well as DIY viewing boxes for all teachers and staff. The viewing was nestled directly in between a co-teaching norms/expectations workshop and individual summer planning time. It was a welcome hour of relief that our leadership team worked into our busy schedule, as we prepared for the upcoming school year. In our building, learning, experimentation and academics never end with the students!
On Monday, August 21, 2017, all of North America was treated to an eclipse of the sun. It was the first time an eclipse crossed the United States in 99 years. Anyone within the path of totality was able to see one of nature’s most awe-inspiring sights - a total solar eclipse.
Those within the 70 mile-wide path, where the moon completely covered the sun and the sun's tenuous atmosphere - the corona - had the pleasure of watching the moon black out the sun entirely stretched from from Lincoln Beach, Oregon to Charleston, South Carolina. Observers, like us NY residents, outside the path were still able to see a partial solar eclipse where the moon covered part of the sun’s disk.