Solar ECLIPSE FAQS
What is a solar eclipse?
A solar eclipse happens when the moon passes between the sun and the earth, blocking some or all of the sun to Earth’s surface.
What type of eclipse is it?
The 2024 eclipse will be a total solar eclipse. During this time, the moon will completely block the sun. Even though the sun is about 400 times larger than the moon, the distance between each solar body creates the illusion that they’re the same size in the sky when viewed from Earth.
When will the eclipse be visible in Bastrop?
The eclipse will be visible throughout Bastrop and the Lost Pines Region from approximately 12:20 pm - 2:25 pm CST on April 8, 2024. Bastrop is located just outside the path of totality, but the viewing experience should be very close to those inside the path of totality. Bastrop locals and visitors will experience about 1 minute and 46 seconds of the (almost) total solar eclipse at 1:36 pm CST.
(Credit: Getty)
Solar Eclipse Viewing Tips
Anyone looking to view the 2024 eclipse should know that it is crucial to use ISO12312-2 certified eye protection, made after 2015 without scratches or damage. For more information on eye safety while viewing the eclipse, check out these resources. NASA, National Eclipse, American Astronomical Society.
To see what the eclipse will look like in Bastrop, TX, check out the Eclipse simulator.
- Looking directly at the sun is unsafe except during the total phase of a solar eclipse which lasts 2-4 minutes depending on location and viewing path.
- If you normally wear eyeglasses, keep them on. Put your eclipse glasses on over them, or hold your handheld viewer in front of them.
- Always supervise children using solar glasses.
- Your regular sunglasses are not strong enough to protect your eyes from looking directly at the sun.
- Secure your ISO 12312-2:2015 certified eyewear well in advance.
WHAT TO BRING
Don't forget these must-have items for your packing list:
- ISO 12312-2: 2015 certified eyewear for anyone who plans to view the eclipse directly by looking at the sun
- Sunscreen, hat, and sunglasses for before/after the eclipse
- a full take of gas and an emergency roadside kit/first aid kit in case of traffic delays.
- Extra snackage and water
- Folding chairs and/or a picnic blanket
- Cash
Transportation & Weather
The eclipse is expected to attract lots of visitors to our neighbors to the east, Austin, TX. Therefore, roadway congestion and delays are likely in the big city. This makes Bastrop a prime viewing destination as we will experience much of the eclipse without the hustle and bustle of the crowds. To ensure you have a great viewing experience, be sure to arrive early and consider sticking around after the eclipse to avoid traffic. Just to be safe, here are a few extra tips:
- Come early and stay late.
- Carpool or travel with as few vehicles as possible
- Print driving instructions or any important information in the event the space you choose to view the eclipse does not have cell phone service.
- Pack extra food, water batteries and fuel.
- Follow local guidelines and park in designated areas only.
