News Release

Fort Donelson NB to host Annual Solar Eclipse Junior Ranger Program

You are viewing ARCHIVED content

This content was published online before January 20, 2025. Please note that this content is NOT UPDATED, and links may not work. For current information, visit https://www.nps.gov/aboutus/news/index.htm.

News Release Date: October 6, 2023
Contact: William Fields, 931-232-0840

On October 14th, those at Fort Donelson National Battlefield and across the surrounding region will have an opportunity to observe a natural event that most may always remember – a partial solar eclipse that will bring a period of darkening the sky during the middle of the day. Fort Donelson is located within the southern portion of the 54% totality zone, meaning that for a period of time, 54% of the sun will be covered by the moon.

From 11:00 AM to noon, visitors will have opportunity for the public and Junior Rangers to learn more about the sun, how a solar eclipse happens, and have an opportunity to make some great eclipse-related art and crafts. An eclipse-specific Junior Ranger booklet will be available for completion to earn a special badge. Rangers will remain for the duration of the eclipse to interact with visitors and share in the experience.

Partial obstruction of the sun begins at 10:36 AM, peaking to 54% at 12:02 PM, with partial coverage ending at 1:34 PM. As no one should ever stare at the sun without proper eye protection, those in attendance will receive one pair of special eclipse glasses to safely observe the event. 

In the event of weather that may prevent the viewing of the eclipse, such as heavy clouds or rain, or for those unable to attend this eclipse, a “bright spot” is that on April 8, 2024 the Fort Donelson region will be within the 95% coverage of an eclipse and hosting activities and viewing opportunities for that event.For questions or more information please call for Donelson National Battlefield at 931-232-5706, extension 0.

RSS Feed | What is RSS?