Fort Worth residents are gearing up to witness a celestial spectacle as a total solar eclipse darkens the skies on April 8. According to a recent release by the City of Fort Worth, those on the path will experience a twilight sensation for up to 4 and a half minutes during the mid-afternoon event.

Described as a rare alignment when the moon passes directly between the sun and Earth, the eclipse will begin to take shape around noon with the full effect occurring at approximately 1:41 p.m. in Fort Worth. The City is ensuring viewer safety by reportedly adjusting public works schedules, and local institutions are set to offer an array of eclipse-themed events. Fort Worth Library, in partnership with NASA's Mission2Mars project, will host learning experiences leading up to the main event, while community centers around the area will also celebrate with watch parties at 1 p.m., stated the City of Fort Worth.

To ensure public safety, the City is emphasizing the importance of eye protection. It's imperative to wear eclipse glasses or use an indirect observation method such as a pinhole viewer to avoid eye damage. Directly observing the sun without proper protection is only safe during the short period of totality, which lasts a few minutes at most.

Eager to accommodate the expected influx of local and visiting spectators, venues like the Fort Worth Botanic Garden and Fort Worth Museum of Science and History are preparing prime viewing areas for the eclipse. Additional family-friendly festivities, including kayaking, solar scoping, and special museum activities, are designed to enrich the overall experience. The Fort Worth Zoo is also planning to observe animal behavior during the eclipse, inviting guests to partake in the study with provided observation forms.