VU’s Total Eclipse of the Heartland culminates with today’s main event

April 8, 2024

VINCENNES, Ind. - Vincennes University welcomes skygazers from near and far to its Vincennes Campus to witness the awe-inspiring spectacle of a total solar eclipse on Monday, April 8.

With the longest totality in the state of Indiana at four minutes and five seconds, Vincennes is poised to be a prime destination.

VU's Total Eclipse of the Heartland showcases its commitment to educating and engaging the community about the Great American Eclipse. Through a series of free workshops, presentations, and festivities, the months-long event has provided opportunities for learning, exploration, and celebration in anticipation of today’s rare celestial event.

VU College of Science, Engineering, and Mathematics Dean Curt Coffman said, "Vincennes University is committed to fostering a sense of wonder and discovery within the University Community and the greater community. We are delighted to provide an environment for individuals of all ages to come together and experience the magic of eclipses firsthand."

Eclipse Day is finally here!

Today, VU has planned an exciting afternoon for students, filled with games, fun, food, and prizes. Activities such as glow-in-the-dark dodgeball, painting an eclipse, and making galaxy slime will add to the festive atmosphere. As students enjoy these engaging activities, live updates of the eclipse will be broadcast, building anticipation for the main event. Later, students will gather on the intramural field at the center of campus, equipped with blankets and chairs, to witness the solar eclipse in totality, creating a memorable experience for all.

"I am really impressed by all of the eclipse events that VU has offered," VU Homeland Security and Public Safety major Amelia Huffman said. "I am excited for the chance to see the beauty of the total solar eclipse. It's a unique experience that I'll cherish forever."

VU invites the public to join in eclipse-viewing festivities at Kimmell Park along the scenic Wabash River and at the VU Track and Field Complex. These locations provide ideal settings for spectators to safely enjoy the extraordinary occasion while enjoying the company of fellow watchers. Parking and viewing is free. Guests are encouraged to bring their chairs and blankets.

Months of special events

Leveraging the expertise of faculty and special guests, VU has held months of unique eclipse programming aimed at entertaining and educating people.

Leading up to today, VU has hosted a multifaceted eclipse event, featuring special presentations by retired NASA astrophysicist Fred Espenak, and a captivating talk by VU Photography Professor Christopher Schneberger on capturing the eclipse through photography. VU Math Professor Nancy Riggs shared insights on predicting eclipses.

The celebration continued at the Red Skelton Performing Arts Center with a unique blend of poetry, imagery, and music during "The Hidden Sun" event, which included a composition by Marjorie Rusche and featured Yujun Cao on piano. VU staff and community members also read original poetry.

Additionally, Dr. Jonathan Mangin engaged audiences with a presentation detailing the Dynamic Eclipse Broadcast (DEB) Initiative and his plans to take measurements of the sun from a location near VU's Updike Hall – Center for Science, Engineering, and Mathematics on the day of the eclipse.

All of the VU events offered in-depth and enriching experiences for all attendees.

Total Eclipse of the Heartland exemplifies VU's dedication to serving as a hub of lifelong learning and exploration. Through collaborative efforts and a commitment to safety and accessibility, VU continues to enrich the lives of countless individuals and families.

For more Total Eclipse of the Heartland information, visit vinu.edu/2024-total-eclipse

Photo credit: The featured image of the sun was taken by Dr. Jonathan Mangin on the Vincennes Campus on April 6, 2024.

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