The path of the total solar eclipse will pass right over Liberty on Monday, August 21. Make travel plans early to take advantage of this once in a lifetime opportunity. You'll be able to see the eclipse happening from any spot in Liberty. If you're looking for a particularly good view, Fountain Bluff Sports Complex or
Historic Downtown Liberty will please any eclipse enthusiast.
Where to View:
Science, Sun and Fun - William Jewell College
Join the Society of Physics Students and William Jewell College Physics Faculty members at
Greene Memorial Stadium for a solar eclipse viewing event. Telescopes with solar filters will be available to view partial phases of the eclipse and students will offer eclipse models and other science demonstrations. A supply of solar eclipse classes will be available for guests and Cardinal Athletics will provide a free water station. The music and programming will run from 12:30 - 1:30 p.m. Parking is available adjacent to the stadium.
Wide Open Spaces - Fountain Bluff Sports Complex
Fountain Bluff Sports Complex is 146-acres of unobstructed eclipse viewing space. The complex is home to 9 baseball and softball fields, soccer fields, playgrounds and 8 ponds that are stocked by the Missouri Department of Conservation. Bring the whole family and your lawn chairs for an afternoon picnic.
Shopping, Dining and More - Historic Downtown Liberty
For those looking for some more action before or after the eclipse, head to Downtown Liberty. The 26 retail shops and 11 eateries in the business district will be ready to welcome eclipse goers. Some shops will be offering special eclipse deals and handing out eclipse glasses. Street parking is available around the downtown square area and in the parking lots at Kansas and Missouri streets.
When to view:
All times are approximate.
- 11:45 a.m. - Moon begins to cover the sun (dusk)
- 1:08 p.m. - Moon totally covers the sun (eclipse in Liberty)
- We will see up to 2 minutes and 41 seconds of total darkness
- 2:45 p.m. - Moon moves completely off the sun (dawn)
ECLIPSE TIPS:
- Protect your eyes: Looking directly at the sun is unsafe except during the brief total phase of a solar eclipse called "totality", when the moon entirely blocks the sun's bright face. The only safe way to look directly at an uneclipsed sun is through special purpose solar filters, such as eclipse-glasses. Ordinary sunglasses, even very dark tinted ones, are not safe for looking at the sun.
- Plan ahead and allow for extra travel time: Many people will be visiting Missouri and the Kansas City area to view the eclipse. Allow for extra travel time to get where you're headed.
- If you're driving during the eclipse:
- Don't take photographs while driving
- Don't wear "eclipse glasses" while driving
- Turn on your headlights, don't rely on auto headlights
- Don't stop along the roadway, head to William Jewell College, one of Liberty's parks, Historic Downtown Liberty or a parking lot to view