Themester

The search for “Light and Truth” can be dangerous and so can looking directly at an eclipse. Themester and the Department of Astronomy have a solution with eclipse-viewer maker activities at First Thursday and at an upcoming partial eclipse. 

Two solar eclipses will occur within the next year. A partial solar eclipse will occur on October 14, and a historic full solar eclipse will occur on April 8 for Bloomington and other locations in the path of totality. 

In preparation for these events, Themester interns will guide students through the construction of eclipse viewers at the upcoming First Thursday Festival on October 5 from 5 to 8 p.m.  

“A total solar eclipse happens when the moon passes in front of the sun and completely blocks our view of the sun,” Dr. Catherine Pilachowski, of the Department of Astronomy. Dr. Pilachowski, a Distinguished Professor and the Daniel Kirkwood Chair of the department, recently answered questions about the April 2024 eclipse in an interview with News at IU's Ask an Expert.

Sparks and other Themester interns will lead First Thursday attendees through constructing their own eclipse viewers from common materials including cardboard boxes, foil, tape, and paper. All construction materials will be provided, including star and moon stickers for customization. 

Themester’s eclipse-viewer makers’ station will take place at the First Thursday Festival on October 5 at the IU Arts Plaza and at the partial eclipse viewing event at Kirkwood Observatory. Additional events will occur over the academic year to celebrate and anticipate the April 2024 eclipse, including Science Fest in April 2024.