Indiana will soon be center stage for a total solar eclipse, a cosmic phenomenon that will take place on April 8, 2024. The Hoosier State is in the path of totality, where the face of the sun will be completely blocked by the moon. Here’s what you need to know.
Where to watch the total solar eclipse in Indiana
Plan ahead
The eclipse is a rare experience. DNR reports in its magazine Outdoor Indiana that there hasn’t been a total solar eclipse visible in Indiana since 1869, and the next total solar eclipse that will be visible from the contiguous U.S. isn’t until August 2044. With the rarity of the event and the entire Hoosier State being able to see at least a partial eclipse, Total Solar Eclipse, a website produced and maintained by DHS, states that as many as half a million out-of-state visitors will come to Indiana.
There may be challenges that come along with the influx of people. So, before April 8, 2024, be sure to have an eclipse plan in place. You can start by checking these things off your list.
Where will I view the eclipse? If you’re not sure yet Total Solar Eclipse 2024 has many suggestions.
Ensure you have appropriate eclipse glasses or solar viewers.
Have a backup plan. What if it is cloudy where you are planning to go? Check the forecast a few days before the event.
Be prepared for traffic. Areas near the eclipse centerline are expected to see the greatest influx of visitors, including Bloomington, Evansville, Franklin, Indianapolis, Muncie, Terre Haute and Vincennes. Visit INDOT TrafficWise to plan your route and monitor traffic conditions. Oh, and leave early!
Know what to take and what not to take with you to watch the total solar eclipse. It is recommended that pets stay at home or inside. Do you need lawn chairs where you’re going? What about food or snacks? Don’t forget to bring water.
After the eclipse, there will be heavy traffic and delays so prepare to hang out at your viewing location for a while. Plan activities to do in the area where you’ll be viewing the eclipse so you don’t need to leave right away.
Insurance coverage for events
Are you hosting an event on your property for the total eclipse? Are you charging admission? Do you plan to serve alcohol? Any of these situations could affect your liability exposure. Be sure to reach out to your Indiana Farm Bureau Insurance agent soon to discuss getting a Special Events Policy. Don’t wait until the last minute to avoid any potential delays due to high volumes or other unforeseen circumstances that may lead to longer turnaround times.
Be safe!
You don’t want to put a damper on this momentous event, so follow these safety protocols.
Do not look directly at the sun. Be sure you have appropriate eclipse glasses or solar viewers. DHS suggests visiting the American Astronomical Society for a list of reputable dealers or get glasses with a Hoosier flair from Visit Indiana.
Make a box pinhole viewer or a pinhole projector with your kids. Total Solar Eclipse 2024 has links to directions.
Be sun safe. Don’t forget sunscreen if you are going to be outside for the event.
The eclipse happens in April—spring in Indiana—be prepared for severe weather and have a safety plan in place if the unexpected occurs.
Cellular service may be slow or not available. Have a preplanned check-in point and time for your group.
When was the last total solar eclipse in Indiana?
The last time Indiana saw a total solar eclipse, the state was just over 50 years old. Ulysses S. Grant was president, Purdue University had just opened its doors and the Cincinnati Red Stockings were the only professional baseball team. Jesse James robbed his first bank, and the Transcontinental Railroad was completed.
Why should I watch the total solar eclipse?
You don’t want to miss this event. Not just because it is rare but for all the other cool things you’ll see according to Total Solar Eclipse 2024.
Sun’s Corona – Only visible during totality, this is the sun’s outer atmosphere.
Baily’s Beads – An arc of bright spots surrounding the moon that occurs just as totality begins and ends. It is beads of sunlight shining on irregularities on the surface of the moon.
Shadow snakes –These are shadow bands of wavy lines of alternating light and darkness. They appear a few seconds before and after totality on plain-colored surfaces.
Diamond Ring – This occurs just before totality when only a single bead of light from the sun remains.
Planets – You may see Jupiter and Venus. And if viewed through a telescope, you could see other planets, such as Saturn and Mercury, and possibly even a comet.
Sunset – It may be possible to view a 360-degree sunset!
What's the best time for me to see the total solar eclipse?
Here is a handy chart showing the expected times of totality throughout Indiana (all times are afternoon Eastern Daylight Time).
Have fun!
Whether you are a native Hoosier or traveling to our great state, be sure to have fun! Use these tips to help you plan ahead and maximize the experience. Think about extending your trip and enjoying some of the great attractions that Indiana has to offer.