A total of 300,000 glasses were purchased by the Buffalo Museum of Science (BMS) with $100,000 in funding from Erie County.
The BMS received the remainder of the order earlier this week from Rainbow Symphony, recognized by the American Astronomical Society’s Solar Eclipse Task Force as a reputable supplier of safe solar viewers/filters, and is working with the libraries to distribute them across the county. The first distribution of glasses in mid-October was picked up from libraries much faster than anticipated, and supplies ran out within weeks.
Complimentary eclipse glasses will also be available at the BMS during the winter break in tandem with eclipse-themed programming, including planetarium shows and eclipse safety workshops instructing museum guests on how to view a solar eclipse safely.
The BMS warns that while witnessing a total solar eclipse can be a life-altering moment, looking directly at the Sun with the naked eye in the time leading up to and after totality could lead to vision damage or even blindness. To avoid this danger, securing eclipse viewing glasses from a reputable source is critical for eye safety. The BMS recommends storing glasses in a safe location and checking them for damage prior to use.
“The Buffalo Museum of Science is ready to help area residents prepare for the April 8 eclipse. This includes having eclipse glasses at the ready as well as having a plan for where you will view the eclipse. Western New York could welcome upwards of a million tourists to our area for that one day, which could lead to serious traffic challenges,” says BMS Chief Scientist Holly Schreiber, PhD. “You will be able to view the eclipse from anywhere in Western New York with a clear view of the southwest sky, and we are encouraging residents to stay at or close to home to view the eclipse, such as a nearby park or even your own backyard, or somewhere you can stay comfortably before, during and after the eclipse.”
The Museum will be closed on April 8, 2024, for the total solar eclipse, but BMS eclipse and education staff are offering opportunities to learn more about eclipses and eclipse safety between now and eclipse day. The following programs are available between now and the end of the year:
- Wednesday, Dec. 27 at 10:30 a.m. | Planetarium Shows
- Wednesday, Dec. 27 at 1 p.m. | Solar Eclipse Safety Training
- Thursday, Dec. 28 at 10:30 a.m. | Planetarium Shows
- Thursday, Dec. 28 at 2 p.m. | Planetarium Shows
The BMS also offers outreach programming that can be booked by schools and groups.
For more information on the April 8 total solar eclipse, available group programs, and a list of upcoming eclipse programming, visit www.sciencebuff.org/eclipse.
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About Buffalo Society of Natural Sciences
The Buffalo Society of Natural Sciences manages the Buffalo Museum of Science and Tifft Nature Preserve with the mission of inspiring joyful exploration of science and nature through engaging experiences, unique resources, and exceptional staff. Located in East Buffalo, the Buffalo Museum of Science inspires multigenerational learning through interactive science studios, exhibits, programming, and its extensive collection of more than 700,000 belongings, objects, and specimens. Tifft is a 264-acre urban wetland preserve on reclaimed former industrial land in South Buffalo and serves as the Museum’s “living collection”. The Preserve offers five miles of hiking trails free of charge year-round, as well as environmental education, stewardship, and outreach. Learn more at sciencebuff.org and tifft.org.
About Buffalo & Erie County Public Library System
Buffalo & Erie County Public Libraries have more than 3.2 million materials – books, eBooks, DVDs, and more. There are 37 libraries and two mobile book vehicles serving the community. Over 400,000 people have library cards which are free to Erie County, New York residents and to those who work and/or attend school in the county. Buffalo & Erie County Public Libraries offer materials, streaming, public computers, WiFi, hundreds of onsite and virtual programs annually for all ages and links to community groups and resources in an effort to support a society of lifelong learners. Follow the library on Facebook, Twitter (X), Instagram, Pinterest, Flickr and on our podcast All Booked Up! Information: 716-858-8900 or http://www.buffalolib.org.
