Posted in Kentucky History July 15, 2017 by

The Incredible Moment When Kentucky Will Go Dark That Will Go Down In History

If you haven’t already, be sure to mark your calendar for August 21, 2017. On this date, Kentucky will be in the front row to a natural phenomenon that hasn’t occurred since 1918. The “Great American Eclipse” will occur on this August afternoon, where for a few minutes, a portion of Kentucky will go dark and make its way into the history books.

Named the "Great American Eclipse," this once-in-a-lifetime event will take place in the afternoon of August 21st. While it will be partially viewable from portions of the country, there is a specific band that stretches across the United States where you can experience the total eclipse. Luckily, this band passes right through Western Kentucky, making it easy for us to have a front row seat.
Photo Credit
The solar eclipse will occur at approximately 1:22pm local time and will only last a couple of minutes. Hopefully the weather cooperates and we can get a full shot of the moon passing over the sun, making the summer afternoon turn into darkness.
Flickr/Monday's Socks
There are a number of notable spots throughout Kentucky to watch the eclipse, some of which are even organized festivals and celebrations. Kentucky Lake is right on the path and will surely make a beautiful backdrop for this event.
Flickr/Rachel Melton
You better believe that the entire state - and country - will have their cameras out and ready to capture this historic moment. We haven't experienced this since 1918, but there's a good chance you'll get to witness another one, as the next solar eclipse will occur in 7 years.
Flickr/James Williams

If you’re looking for the ultimate spot to view the eclipse, Hopkinsville tops the list as one of the best places in the country for viewing. This town will have the longest duration of the eclipse at 2 minutes and 40 seconds, which will occur at 1:24pm local time. Be sure to block your calendar and make plans now to be in Western Kentucky for a view of the Bluegrass State like you’ve never seen before.

Do you have plans to watch the Great American Solar Eclipse? Many viewing spots are already sold out, but that doesn’t mean you can’t get in on this epic moment in Kentucky. For more information, including the best places to view the eclipse and exactly when it will happen, check out Kentucky Tourism’s website here.

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