Eclipse Viewing in New Braunfels
"THE RING OF FIRE" ANNULAR ECLIPSE
Saturday, Oct. 14, 2023
On Oct. 14, 2023, the skies will serve up a celestial show that hasn't happened in the New Braunfels area for 83 years and won't return until 2077.
What is an Annular Eclipse?
An annular eclipse occurs when the moon passes between the Earth and the sun. Unlike a total solar eclipse, the moon appears slightly smaller than the sun due to its orbital position. This creates the mesmerizing visual of a radiant, fiery ring surrounding the moon—an illusion famously known as the "ring of fire." Visible in parts of the United States, Mexico, and various countries in South and Central America, this rare phenomenon offers an awe-inspiring experience for millions.
When, Where, and How to Watch
In New Braunfels, the moon will begin to eclipse the sun at 10:24 a.m., with the total annular eclipse occurring at 11:54 a.m. Choose a location with an unobstructed sky view. Several local venues will host viewing parties and provide essential eye protection. Standard sunglasses won't cut it—you'll need eclipse glasses or a pinhole projector to safely appreciate this cosmic spectacle.
TOTAL ECLIPSE
Monday, April 8, 2024
Eclipses don't happen in the same place frequently, but we're lucky! On April 8, 2024, a total eclipse will occur, with Central Texas right in the viewing zone.
What is a Total Eclipse?
For a few minutes, it will look and feel like twilight. Part of Comal County, of which New Braunfels is the seat, will be in the path of totality. The city of New Braunfels itself is just outside the path of totality and will experience a deep partial eclipse with a magnitude of 99.67%. In layman's terms, the moon will cover nearly the entire sun, leaving just the tiniest sliver of sunlight peeking through. The effect will be nearly indistinguishable to totality, offering a near-complete darkening of the sky.
When, Where, and How to Watch
Again, several New Braunfels locations will host viewing parties. For the total eclipse, it’s safe to look at the eclipse from within the path of totality when the moon completely covers the sun. However, this is a very short duration of time, and special eclipse glasses will still be needed for the rest of the eclipse.
