Posted in Wyoming August 20, 2017 by

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

On August 21, 2017, for the first time in almost 100 years, Wyoming will experience a total solar eclipse.

Not since 1918 has the beautiful Wyoming sky gone dark due to an eclipse of this caliber, and it’s not going to be easy to miss. The astrological event will cut a wide swath across the state, taking place roughly between 11:30 and 11:50 a.m., depending on where you’re at when it occurs. Most of the state has been gearing up for this once-in-a-lifetime experience for over a year, but if you haven’t been on the eclipse bandwagon until now, here is some more information on this incredible historic occurrence.

We’re aware that these uncertain times are limiting many aspects of life as we all practice social and physical distancing. While we’re continuing to feature destinations that make our state wonderful, we don’t expect or encourage you to go check them out immediately. We believe that supporting local attractions is important now more than ever and we hope our articles inspire your future adventures! And on that note, please nominate your favorite local business that could use some love right now: https://www.onlyinyourstate.com/nominate/
The Great American Eclipse on August 21, 2017 will span across the entire North American Continent.
NASA
Because a large section of Wyoming will be in the path of totality, it's the best place to be to get the total eclipse experience.
NASA
Certain spots in Wyoming will see night-like darkness, but even the areas outside the path of totality will experience darkened skies and slight temperature drops.
People from all over the country are flocking to Wyoming and other spots in the path of totality for this phenomenal event. It's an exciting time in history, but you should be prepared.
Takeshi Kuboki/Flickr
First off, you can't look directly at the sun, even when it's being eclipsed by the moon, so you'll need special glasses or other special viewing equipment to ensure the safety of your eyes.
jalexartis/Flickr
P.S. Don't try to use your cell phone to view the eclipse, either. It doesn't have the specialized solar filter that's necessary for protecting your eyes.
The length of time that the sky will remain dark will depend on where you're at. On average, it's expected to last about 2 minutes and 40 seconds, but could be longer than 7 minutes in the areas experiencing totality.
Jeremy Thies/Flickr
Officials are telling people to plan ahead for the eclipse - and they're not only talking about getting the right kind of viewing equipment. You'll want to fill up your gas tank days before the event.
Flickr/Mike Mozart
The weeks before and after the eclipse are going to be busy ones. It's estimated that anywhere between 48,000 to over 190,000 people will travel to Wyoming to be in the right place at the right time, so be ready to wait in line practically everywhere you go.
It's probably a good idea to stock up on groceries and other necessities ahead of time, too.
colorblindPICASO/Flickr
Also, though you'll probably want to share the experience with others who didn't make the journey to be at or near the path of totality, remember that everyone else has the same idea. Some agencies are warning that a huge number of people trying to jump on networks at once could cause systems to slow or fail, so ou may have trouble getting cell phone service.
Japanexperterna.se/Flickr
In anticipation of possible issues, some providers have already beefed up network speeds and capacities and confidently reassure customers that they'll have coverage when the time comes.
Wherever you are in Wyoming when the eclipse is taking place, it's sure to be an experience you won't forget.
Grand Canyon National Park/Flickr
It could be another 100 years before Wyoming is again in the path of totality of a solar eclipse.
Takeshi Kuboki/Flickr

Need more information? You’ll find it at the Great American Eclipse website.