ECLIPSE INFORMATION
Link to Copperas Cove August Solar Eclipse Town Hall Presentation: Eclipse Google Slides
What’s happening on April 8th, 2024?
On Monday, April 8, 2024, there will be a total solar eclipse. Copperas Cove, TX is in the center of the path of totality. In a solar eclipse, the moon passes between the Earth and the Sun. In a total solar eclipse, the Sun is completely covered by the moon for a short period of time. To see a total solar eclipse, you must be in the path of totality.
What is the duration of totality?
In Copperas Cove, totality begins at approximately 1:36 p.m. and lasts about 4 minutes.
How do I safely look at an eclipse?
Looking directly at the Sun is extremely dangerous and can cause permanent eye damage or blindness! Special eclipse safety glasses or viewers need to be worn to view the eclipse.
The only safe time to look directly at the eclipse without these special glasses is during the 4 minutes we will experience of totality!
The current standard for safe solar viewing is ISO 12312-2; your eclipse safety glasses or viewers should have this designation printed on them. Take care to purchase your glasses or viewers directly from a recognized manufacturer of certified safe eclipse glasses or a reputable seller that purchased from a recognized manufacturer.
Copperas Cove Special Events has solar eclipse glasses available now for purchase! Stop by the Copperas Cove Civic Center, 1206 W Ave B, Monday through Friday 8:00 am - 5:00 pm. There are multiple designs to choose from, $3 per pair or 4 for $10.
ECLIPSE EVENT PREPARATION
What disruptions can people expect on the day of the total solar eclipse?
- Internet-network congestion due to the influx of people in the area using the internet at the same time.
- Cellular-network congestion due to the influx of people in the area using the network at the same time.
- Traffic congestion
- Schools will be closed.
- Possible shortages at grocery stores & gas stations
- Businesses may be closed.
How many visitors are expected to come to Copperas Cove to view the Solar Eclipse in 2024?
Predicting how many visitors will come to Copperas Cove to view the Eclipse is difficult. The city is basing the expected number of visitors on historical numbers from the Solar Eclipse in 2017. Cities in the path of totality in 2017 saw an influx of thousands of visitors to their town.
As a local business owner, should I remain open?
The decision to stay open is up to each business. This is your opportunity to think outside the box for businesses that remain open. Consider featuring eclipse-related merchandise or promotions to increase profitability for your business. Businesses in the path of the 2017 total solar eclipse, saw the eclipse day as the most profitable business day of the year!
I am planning on hosting a public event for the 2024 solar eclipse, what should I do?
Event organizers, residents, and business owners who are hosting public events for the Solar Eclipse 2024 are encouraged to submit an Eclipse Community Viewing Event Submission Form.
Copperas Cove Eclipse Community Viewing Event - Copperas Cove Chamber of Commerce
ECLIPSE VIEWING EVENTS
What events are taking place for the 2024 solar eclipse?
All events taking place are listed under the "Eclipse Events" tab of this webpage and our city interactive map
What are the City's Recreational Parks Hours?
Parks with eclipse events will have information for each event listed under the "Eclipse Events" tab of this webpage. For parks not listed, please refer to the Copperas Parks & Recreation Department for park hours.
VOLUNTEERS
How can volunteers sign up?
Volunteers can sign up to volunteer through the Human Resources Department, located at City Hall.
Will you have volunteers throughout the area? Has the City talked with local groups to help volunteer during the event(s)?
Many community organizations and individuals have indicated a willingness to help in many ways and our plan is to have our volunteers circulating throughout downtown, assisting visitors at all eclipse event locations, directing traffic for parking, and cleaning up the event areas.
What type of volunteering opportunities are there?
- Customer Service
- Parking Attendants
- Waste Management
How will volunteers be managed? Will there be training?
City staff will be utilized as group leaders for our volunteers and there will be training sessions available in early 2024.
What are the shifts for volunteers?
Volunteers will serve for at least 4-hour shifts and must have transportation to work locations. Shifts will be needed from morning until night.
