Are you still searching for the perfect location to view the total solar eclipse?
Get a prime viewing spot at one of 54 Missouri Department of Conservation (MDC) areas that are in the direct path of this historic event on Monday, August 21 when the moon completely passes in front of the sun.
The last total solar eclipse that was visible in Missouri occurred in 1869, and the next one will be visible in parts of southern Missouri in April 2024.
The entire path of “totality” stretches diagonally across the United States. All cities and states within the path can be found on maps at Eclipse 2017.
Those viewing from state parks will also have a rare chance to see the unusual behavior of wildlife and experience the temperature drop during the total solar eclipse.
“Daylight is a cue for birds throughout their day to wake up in the morning and return to roost at night,” said Sarah Kendrick, MDC state ornithologist. “As the sky becomes darker during the eclipse, some birds may become confused by the lack of light and could exhibit odd behaviors such as going quiet, thinking that night is falling.”
During a total eclipse, the moon passes between the sun and the earth, blocking its light and allowing viewers to see the sun’s outer atmosphere, the corona. The moon casts a shadow, called an umbra, onto the Earth. Communities in the path of totality will experience a few minutes of temperature drop and dimmed sunlight similar to twilight as the umbra passes over them.
To safely view the eclipse, special solar viewing glasses are required for eye protection. They are available at many retail and online locations, including Eclipse2017.org.
See a detailed MDC map of viewing areas. All areas are free and open to the public, but may require visitors to obtain a special-use permit for group camping.