REDDING, Calif. - The Bureau of Reclamation will host a solar eclipse viewing at Shasta Dam Aug. 21 from 9 a.m. to noon. The last time a total solar eclipse was visible from coast to coast along the same path was almost 100 years ago, on June 8, 1918.
From Shasta Dam, about 9 miles northwest of Redding, 90 percent of the total eclipse should be viewable. The eclipse is expected to begin at 9:02 a.m., with the maximum eclipse at 10:16 a.m. The eclipse finish is expected at 11:38 a.m.
Reclamation guides will be available at a booth on the crest of the dam to share a variety of ways to view the eclipse and explain what is happening. Protective eclipse glasses will be provided to ensure a safe opportunity for visitors to view this rare event. Activities for all ages are planned to enhance the experience.
A solar eclipse is when the moon, positioned directly between the sun and Earth, casts a shadow on our planet. This year’s eclipse will first be visible over the Pacific Ocean before crossing over Oregon and following a diagonal path across the U.S. to South Carolina.
For more information about the Shasta Dam viewing event, please contact Sheri Harral at 530-276-2030 (TTY 800-877-8339) or sharral@usbr.gov. For more information about the eclipse, please visit https://eclipse2017.nasa.gov/.
Source: Bureau of Reclamation
