Residents of Wyoming will have the opportunity to witness a partial solar eclipse next month, provided that the weather conditions are favorable. However, it is important to note that special glasses will be required to safely view the eclipse.
According to the Riverton Office of the National Weather Service, the eclipse is expected to begin between 9:10 and 9:15 a.m. in Wyoming on October 14th, reaching its peak around 10:30 a.m., and concluding around noon.
This year’s eclipse will be an annular eclipse, as described by NASA. During an annular eclipse, the Moon passes between the Sun and Earth when it is at or near its farthest point from Earth. As a result, the Moon appears smaller than the Sun and does not completely cover it, creating a ring-like shape.
It is vital for individuals who wish to view the eclipse to take the necessary precautions, as looking directly at an eclipse can cause permanent damage to the eyes. NASA emphasizes that special glasses specifically designed for eclipse viewing are the only safe option, as regular sunglasses will not provide adequate protection.
In most parts of Wyoming, the sun will be obscured by approximately 70 to 80 percent during the eclipse. However, certain regions in southwest Wyoming, including Rock Springs, will experience over 80 percent coverage. The visibility of the eclipse’s effects will largely depend on the weather conditions, and heavy cloud cover may hinder its observation.
The Riverton Office of the National Weather Service has created a video for the convenience of Wyoming residents, providing further information and guidance regarding the upcoming eclipse.
Aside from the exciting celestial event, Wyoming is also known for its rich cultural heritage and influence on country music. From Chris LeDoux’s popular songs to Garth Brooks’ tribute to Cheyenne in “Beaches of Cheyenne,” the city has been immortalized in various country tunes. Additionally, less-known tracks like James McMurty’s song about Cheyenne and John Denver’s serenade dedicated to the hometown will allow listeners to discover the Western spirit, rodeo legends, and Cowboy romance.