What is a total solar eclipse and why is it so special?
A total solar eclipse occurs when the Moon passes between the Sun and the Earth, casting a shadow on the Earth's surface. During a total solar eclipse, the sky darkens, temperatures drop, and the Sun's corona, the outermost layers of its atmosphere, becomes visible as a glowing halo around the blacked out Sun. Based on your location, the event lasts only a few minutes. The Armstrong Air & Space Museum will have roughly 3 minutes and 56 seconds of totality, making it one of the longest viewing sites in the State of Ohio.
Is viewing the eclipse inside the path of totality worth the trip?
The closer you are to the center, the longer viewing time you have for totality. For example, Toledo, which is on the outside edge of totality, will have approximately 1 minute and 54 seconds of totality. Compare this with the Armstrong Air & Space Museum, which has 3 minutes and 56 seconds of totality. Cities like Cincinnati, Detroit, Columbus, and Fort Wayne are on the outside of totality and will experience only a partial eclipse.
Is your site selling the special eclipse glasses?
The Armstrong Air & Space Museum is currently selling eclipse glasses. These glasses will be on sale until the museum runs out. The glasses will be sold on a first come, first served basis. If you are interested in purchasing these glasses through the museum's online store, please click HERE.
Can I purchase advanced tickets ahead of time?
Admission tickets for Monday, April 8, 2024, will be be sold only at the front desk and will not be sold or reserved ahead of time. To ensure more people can go through and experience the museum, operating hours that Monday will be extended, opening at 9:00 am and closing at 7:00 pm (10:00 am to 5:00 pm all other days.)
What do you have planned in terms of events?
In terms of events, the Armstrong Museum and the City of Wapakoneta have numerous activities and programs planned throughout the weekend and on the eclipse day Monday. Activities at the museum on April 8th include, museum guided tours, a hospitality area in the pavilion, and other fun activities. Check back later for more detailed plans. Also check out the Wapakoneta Area Chamber of Commerce website for other local events happening!
What should be expected in terms of parking and traffic?
Wapakoneta, a town normally of about 10,000 people, is expected to receive an additional 30,000 - 50,000 people for the weekend and day of the eclipse. City officials are working closely with the museum to coordinate enough parking and transportation for individuals. As of right now, the museum is not allowing individuals to reserve parking spots for the event.