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Challenger Learning Center Hosts Eclipse Watchers

Allen Thompson

Monday’s (8/21) solar eclipse wasn’t total in Tallahassee, but that didn’t stop hundreds of enthusiastic watchers from showing up at the Challenger Learning Center. 

The Center handed out hundreds of solar-safe viewing glasses to the crowd. Center Educator Clay Tomlinson said there were other options, too.

“We’ve got pinhole projection cameras so they can safely look at the sun without damaging their eyes. We’ve got solar filters on some of our telescopes over here provided by the TAS: Tallahassee Astronomical Society.”

The City’s Edward Kring was there to promote the new solar-based utility rate program.

“Folks are out here looking at the sun and taking the experience in. They can also learn more about the program through their Tallahassee Utilities,” he said.

Although Florida Petroleum Council Chief David Mica had this observation as the eclipse reached totality.

“Solar power plants across America right now are failing! Although we love solar power, right now is not their optimum time.”

That fact didn’t dim the crowd’s amazement at the cosmic display overhead.

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Tom Flanigan has been with WFSU News since 2006, focusing on covering local personalities, issues, and organizations. He began his broadcast career more than 30 years before that and covered news for several radio stations in Florida, Texas, and his home state of Maryland.

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