Texas cities prepare for solar eclipse tourism in the “Ring of Fire” in October

On October 14, the first of two solar eclipses is scheduled to occur. The moon will cross in front of the sun during the day, and for several minutes those in the path of the shadow cast on the earth will experience the day turning from light to dark.

According to the National Aeronautics and Space Administration (NASA) there Four different types of the eclipse.

Cases in which the moon completely blocks the sun causing total darkness in its shadow are known as “total eclipses”. Texas will experience a total solar eclipse during the second event on April 8, 2024.

The occurrence of the month of October is known as an annular eclipse, when the Moon passes between the Sun and the Earth at its farthest point from the Earth, preventing it from completely blocking the Sun and causing a ring of fire to appear around the edges.

The other two types are partial eclipses, in which the sun is only partially obscured, and “hybrid” in which parts of the Earth will see a total eclipse and elsewhere a partial eclipse.

During each of the approaching solar events, the eclipse’s shadow will cross Texas and those closest to the path center will experience the event’s strongest effects.

Cities across the state that have discovered their communities in this prime viewing squad are preparing and launching websites to help viewers find accommodations, events, shopping experiences, and more.

Kerrvile is one such town, having been launched own web page dedicated to the eclipse. The city is projecting a strong attendance, with hotels and RV parks already booked.

“This will be a historic event for our community, and the economic impact will be extraordinary,” said Rein Thoresen, Kerrville City Tourism and Events Coordinator. press release regarding events. “It can be a little overwhelming to expect such a large number of visitors, but we are working to ensure our community is ready and excited! Being in line for a total solar eclipse is a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity for our region.”

Kerviel put together an event committee to prepare for the occasion, which even includes former NASA employee Jeff Stone, who weighed in on the “life-changing event.”

“Suddenly, in the middle of the day, the shadow rushes toward you at 1,500 miles an hour, and the day is gone,” Stone said, adding, “The planets, the stars, the halo appear as the temperature drops and everyone around them is stunned. You’ll never forget it!”

The annual River Festival is also held in conjunction with the eclipse.

In the nearby town of Burnet, there is that Eclipse Festival It takes place on a local farm and features a range of live music, art shows, and technology panels.

Even Texas launched a Official webpage Providing information regarding eclipse tracks and highlighting events across the state.

While officials at the local, state, and national levels encourage everyone to experience the rare event, they also stress the importance of being prepared.

NASA View guidelines He says, “Because the sun is not completely covered, observers should wear appropriate eye protection at all times while viewing the annular eclipse,” and warns that regular sunglasses are not acceptable for viewing the eclipse. Instead, viewers must have special viewing glasses or use Other methods are recommended by NASA.

In addition, local officials urge viewers to watch out for heat and avoid sunburn in preparation for outdoor conditions.

San Antonio is located roughly in the center of the eclipse’s path across Texas in October, and according to NASA will start the event It will happen there at 10:23 a.m. Central Standard Time.