Columns
Blaine's Bulletin: A Once in a Generation Event
Washington,
August 18, 2017
On Monday, August 21, the continental United States will see a solar eclipse. However, Missouri’s 3rd Congressional District is one of few areas across the country that will witness a total blackout of the sun, leaving only the sun’s atmosphere, called the corona, visable.
On Monday, August 21, the continental United States will see a solar eclipse. However, Missouri’s 3rd Congressional District is one of few areas across the country that will witness a total blackout of the sun, leaving only the sun’s atmosphere, called the corona, visable. Many Missourians, including me, are very excited to witness this incredible experience. The total eclipse will stretch all the way from Oregon to South Carolina, covering 14 states inbetween. The longest period when the moon completely blocks the sun from any given location along the path will be approximately two minutes and 40 seconds. In Jefferson City, the moon will first start crossing in front of the sun at 11:46, and the total eclipse will begin at 1:13:07. The last time the United States saw a total eclipse was in 1979, so an entire generation of Americans have not experienced this phenomenon. This is an excellent opportunity for our region to display our natural beauty, quality way of life, wonderful restaurants and, of course, great baseball teams to the thousands of tourists coming from around the country and globe. From our state capital, to the Lake of the Ozarks, to the St. Louis area, we are proud of our home state and look forward to welcoming so many to Missouri. Just as important as the economic value to our local economy, is the safe observation of the eclipse. I urge you to read how to safely view the sun during this event. While some of these tips may be obvious, they must be followed. Please visit eclipse2017.nasa.gov for safety instruction and historical facts. Lastly, please be sure to share your stories with me via email or Facebook. I would love to hear how the 3rd District celebrates this once in a generation event. |