2017 Solar Eclipse - See the Greatest Show in the Universe at MSU!
We need your help to support one of Earth's rarest events with the public here in Springfield - a Solar Eclipse on August 21! The moon will start crossing the solar disk at 11:44 AM with the maximum coverage of 96% occurring during the sun's peak at 1:18 PM. It will become darker in the middle of the day, birds may begin to chirp, and it may get cooler by a few degrees. A large-scale, free public event will be held at Missouri State University's Plaster Stadium for viewing the solar eclipse. Gates open at 10:30 with the event ending at 2:30. Activities and entertainment will be provided.
Donations are needed to purchase Solar Eclipse Glasses to safely view the Sun during the eclipse. Each person attending will receive a pair of these glasses. Additional donations will be used to support the activities occurring during the event.
It is extremely important to never look directly at the Sun at any time. Doing so can cause injury to the eye and in some cases, blindness. These glasses are certified to be safe to view the eclipse.
In the case of inclement weather and the event is cancelled, all donors will be invited to an Open House at Baker Observatory.
Please share this campaign with the hashtag #MSUBearsEclipse and consider a gift of any amount!
If you have any questions about the campaign, please contact Becky Baker at Solareclipse@Missouristate.edu.
*In addition, MSU alumni who make a qualifying gift of $25 or more receive an Active Alumni Member card.
**The eclipse event at MSU is complete, please keep that in mind when considering incentives. Incentives including "day of" recognition or access are no longer available, but you are still welcome to make a gift to support the expenses for the event!
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Donors will be acknowledged for their support during the eclipse.
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VIP access to 'THE CLIFF' outdoor terrace in the student section at Plaster Stadium with telescopes to view solar activity pre and post eclipse. Wristbands will be provided to identify VIP guests as they experience all aspects of the event, including activities held on the field. (limited to 75)
Invitation to an event to be held at Baker Observatory (date to be determined) in addition to VIP access and acknowledgement during the eclipse
Private tour and observing at Baker Observatory (at an agreed upon date) in addition to VIP access and acknowledgment during the eclipse through a Shout Out on the Jumbo Tron.
Participate remotely (via computer) in an observing session at the NASA Infrared Telescope Facility (late hours required) TBD, as Dr. Peter Plavchan conducts observations in the search for exoplanets in addition to VIP access and acknowledgement during the eclipse through a Shout Out on the Jumbo Tron. Must be able to participate during the nights Dr. Plavchan has observing time.