Several Texas cities preparing for 2023 and 2024 solar eclipse events
Where will you be for the 2023 and 2024 solar eclipses in the United States?
Based on observations from several NASA missions, the latest NASA map details the path of the Moon’s shadow as it crosses the contiguous U.S. during the annular solar eclipse on October 14, 2023, and total solar eclipse on April 8, 2024. Those within Texas will have the unique chance to see the annular eclipse AND the total solar eclipse, weather permitting, as these events cross the state. Texas cities have been preparing for years, since parts of the state will experience both the annular eclipse in 2023 and the total eclipse in 2024.
Bandera, Texas is one of the nation’s premier dark sky destinations and will experience 4 minutes, 3.8 seconds of totality.
- The Mayan Dude Ranch offers an eclipse package that includes accommodations, viewing glasses, and a watch party with unobstructed views from the ranch’s expansive grounds with a resident astronomer. Meals (featuring barbecue, fried catfish, and steaks) are included, as well as activities, such as twice-daily horseback rides, hayrides, breakfast cookouts, and evening entertainment from trick roping to live music and dancing.
Tips for planning a road trip around the solar eclipse
- Plan now, book early. Arrive at least a day before the eclipse, preferably two. Also, plan on staying again that night after the eclipse. Fortunately, April 8 falls on a Monday, so you can stretch the bucket-list trip out for a long weekend.
- Consider the weather. Springtime can be a fickle season. Most areas in Texas are almost always clear in April.
- Gear up. Remember to protect your eyes when viewing the eclipse with special solar viewers and eclipse glasses or shades. Never look directly at the sun, even during a total eclipse!