Fisher to Host Seven Events Leading Up to Solar Eclipse

Rochester is poised to witness a total solar eclipse on Monday, April 8, marking a significant astronomical event for the region. This occurrence will be the first total solar eclipse in Rochester since January 24, 1925, and it won’t happen again until October 26, 2144. To celebrate this historic event, St. John Fisher University will be hosting multiple events in the week leading up to the eclipse.

A trivia night is slated for 7:30 p.m. on Monday, April 1, in collaboration with Game Night Roc. Located in the Dennis ’72 and Denise Tepas Commons, the event promises pizza for attendees and a chance to win prizes.

An interactive “totality tabling” event will take place at 12:30 p.m. on Tuesday, April 2, in the Donald E. Bain Campus Center. Attendees can grab a pair of safe viewing glasses that meet safety standards (marked “ISO:12312-2” to signify their safety compliance) for observing the eclipse, and  learn interesting facts and eclipse safety measures. Safety precautions are paramount during the eclipse; directly viewing the sun without proper eye protection can lead to eye damage.

Students are invited to a “crafter-moon” event at 4:30 p.m. on Wednesday, April 3, in the Elaine Wilson Formal Lounge, where they can create UV bead bracelets as well as craft pinhole cameras for an alternative eclipse viewing experience.

On Friday, April 5, a “solar soiree” is scheduled for noon at the Terrace at Tepas Commons, featuring refreshments, tarot readings, DIY bouquets, and more.

Fisher students will also have an opportunity to purchase Rochester Red Wings tickets for $5 on Saturday, April 6, at 1:05 p.m. at Innovative Field. During this game, the Rochester Red Wings will take on the moniker “Rochester Moon Rocs” in honor of the upcoming eclipse.

An eclipse-themed movie night is set for 6:30 p.m. on Sunday, April 7, in Basil 135, showcasing the film “Twilight: Eclipse,” alongside a variety of themed snacks.

The much-anticipated day of the eclipse, Monday, April 8, will feature a special event from 2 to 4 p.m. in the Tepas Commons for witnessing the totality. Participants will receive eclipse glasses, and enjoy food, crafts, giveaways, and more. Dr. Jeff Stephens, associate professor of physics, will have a telescope on the Terrace at Tepas Commons for a close-up observation of the eclipse. The eclipse is expected to begin at 2:07 p.m., with totality occurring around 3:20 p.m. and lasting approximately three minutes and 39 seconds.

Western New York and the Finger Lakes Region are bracing for an influx of 300,000 to 500,000 visitors arriving to witness the total solar eclipse. In Monroe County alone, an additional 150,000 individuals are expected, prompting residents to anticipate heavy traffic and potential delays. Anyone who will need to commute on the day of the eclipse is advised to exercise caution and adhere to safe driving practices.