New York Governor Kathy Hochul has revealed an exciting collaboration between the New York State Office of Parks, Recreation, and Historic Preservation, alongside various tourism partners in Niagara Falls, and NASA for the upcoming Total Solar Eclipse on April 8, 2024. This celestial spectacle is expected to draw thousands to the Niagara Falls area.
The event will feature programming and exhibits by NASA experts, scientists, and astronauts at various locations across the city, including Niagara Falls Public Libraries, The Underground Railroad Heritage Center, The Aquarium of Niagara, the New York Power Authority Power Vista, the Niagara Falls Culinary Institute, and Niagara Falls State Park. All activities will be free and open to the public, with reservations potentially required based on space availability.
Governor Hochul expressed excitement about the collaboration, emphasizing the unique natural backdrop that Niagara Falls provides for this extraordinary event. The programming by NASA aims to engage and educate the local community, inspiring the next generation of explorers, scientists, and engineers.
In preparation for the event, a task force comprising state agencies and authorities, along with various government levels, has been formed to ensure the health and safety of attendees. This collaborative effort involves studying past eclipse events, focusing on aspects like communications, traffic control, planning, marketing, and education. New York State will provide logistical support and manage its assets, including parks and roads.
State Parks Commissioner Erik Kulleseid highlighted the significance of working with NASA for this unique experience, anticipating an influx of visitors to the city. Destination Niagara’s President and CEO, John Percy, emphasized Niagara Falls USA as the preeminent location for viewing the total solar eclipse due to its natural beauty.
State Senator Rob Ortt and Assemblymember Angelo Morinello expressed excitement about the rare event and NASA’s involvement, anticipating unforgettable experiences for the local community and visitors.
Niagara Falls Mayor Robert Restaino expressed gratitude to Governor Hochul for recognizing Niagara Falls as the perfect location for this spectacular natural wonder.
The New York Power Authority’s Niagara Power Vista, as NASA’s last designated “sun spot” before the eclipse moves into Canada, is enthusiastic about its collaborative programming with NASA and NYS Parks to support this unique viewing and education opportunity.
Niagara County Community College President William Murabito looks forward to hosting NASA at the Niagara Falls Culinary Institute, considering it an ideal site for this partnership.
The eclipse in Niagara Falls is set to begin at 2:04 pm, with full totality starting at 3:18 pm and lasting 3 minutes and 31 seconds.
Programming details for Niagara Falls will be updated on the official website, and information on events across New York State can be found at I Love NY’s events page.
https://www.niagarafallsusa.com/2024-solar-eclipse/
https://www.iloveny.com/events/eclipse-2024/