On April 8, 2024, a partial eclipse was visible in North Dakota from 1-3 p.m. Due to cloud cover, the optimal viewing time was 1:40 p.m. While in other parts of the state not only was the eclipse visible for most of the afternoon but people were able to view a total eclipse. In Texas the partial eclipse started at 12:06 p.m. and a total eclipse was visible at 1:40 p.m.

Although a partial eclipse in North Dakota was only visible on and off due to cloud cover, it was still a sight to see. Science professors Kati Killroy and Nigel George set up outside of Swain Hall and passed out solar viewing glasses to students, faculty, staff and community members.

Senior biology major Brennan Peters was able to view her first eclipse in high school and was excited to be able to see another before the end of her college career.

“It’s really cool to be able to see the eclipse right before I finish college, given that the last one I saw was in high school, “ Peters said. “What’s even cooler is that I will be able to see another one when I turn 40.”

Recent grad and current biology research assistant Becca Valentine said seeing the eclipse is exciting and is a source of happiness for her to be able to witness something so fascinating.

“Being able to see the eclipse is very exciting,” Valentine said. “Being able to sit outside and actually watch the moon cover the sun is so cool and it is something you don’t get to see often. Being able to actually watch the sun is so cool and it’s just happy.”

If you missed this year’s eclipse don’t worry, the next total solar eclipse that can be seen from the contiguous U.S. will be on Aug. 23, 2044.