Solar Eclipse 2024
During a solar eclipse, the moon passes between the Earth and the sun, casting its shadow on our planet. On April 8, 2024, a partial solar eclipse (~ 87%) will be visible in our area. Botetourt County Public Schools will follow a normal schedule this day.
(Image courtesy: NASA.gov)
While the entire event lasts several hours, the period of maximum eclipse will only last for a few minutes around 3:15 PM. Students may witness part of the eclipse while traveling home on the bus, so we encourage families to remind them it is not safe to look directly at the sun without special eye protection.
There are many resources available online to learn more about the eclipse and how to experience it safely: