Madison Reporter

Hundreds gathered at the University of Wisconsin-Madison campus to witness a rare solar eclipse on Monday. The UW–Madison Astronomy Club organized a live viewing event, providing observing tools and fun facts about the occurrence. While some areas of the United States experienced a total eclipse, in Madison, the sun was between 85 and 90 percent obscured.

Jenna Karcheski, president of the UW Astronomy Club, showcased the eclipse using a SunSpotter solar telescope on Library Mall. Students and attendees used various tools to view the eclipse, from protective sunglasses to pinhole projectors and telescopes. Some even got creative, with undergraduate student Sam Rosenman creating smiley face crescent shadows during the event.

The eclipse viewing event drew crowds to different locations on campus, with people gathering at Library Mall, Der Rathskeller in Memorial Union, Union South, Bascom Hill, and the Park Street pedestrian bridge. Vibha Srinivasan was captured smiling as she watched the maximum eclipse moment.

Overall, the event brought together the campus community to witness the celestial phenomenon, with attendees expressing delight and awe at the experience.

The University of Wisconsin-Madison campus was filled with excitement as people enjoyed the warm spring day while observing the eclipse, creating a memorable and shared experience for all who participated.