Bill Nye, the quintessential 'Science Guy' of the '90s, is heading to Fredericksburg, Texas, to grace a two-day solar eclipse fiesta known as Eclipse-O-Rama. Set for April 7 and 8, the event promises a packed itinerary of science talks, nocturnal star gazing, and a chance to revel in the shadow of the moon during the much-awaited total solar eclipse. According to KENS5, Nye, along with a bevy of other guests, will educate and entertain attendees at The Lodge at Country Inn Cottages in Fredericksburg.
The weekend is slated to include a variety of activities kicking off with a welcome ceremony by Mat Kaplan, the Planetary Society's radio host, and culminating with a 'Star Party' that's set to last from 9 p.m. till the midnight sky gives way to stars, as detailed by Nye's company, The Planetary Society. Moreover, YouTuber Mark Rober, along with Science Bob and radio host Sarah Al-Ahmed, are among confirmed participants, boosting the educational quotient of the event as reported by KENS5. Day passes for the gathering begin at a cool $325 with additional paid features available.
On top of the attractions and the spectacle of totality, which Fredericksburg will witness for precisely 4 minutes and 24 seconds, Eclipse-O-Rama attendees will also get treated to music, hands-on science experiments, and an array of food, catering to both the curious and the casual skywatchers. The Planetary Society's selection of Fredericksburg, recognized as an International Dark Sky Community, provides an appropriately dim backdrop conducive to celestial observation. Fredericksburg holds favor due to its accessibility, nestled centrally between Austin and San Antonio airports, ensuring convenience for eclipse chasers, as KXAN states.
The event doesn't lack star power with high-profile space enthusiasts like Tim Dodd, the Everyday Astronaut, and Planetary Society luminaries including Heidi Hammel, President Bethany Ehlmann, and Chief Scientist Bruce Betts, all confirmed to make appearances; this marks a rare opportunity for The Planetary Society members to converge and witness the eclipse firsthand. Should non-members wish to attend, membership can be acquired by joining at the Explorer level during registration, an opportunity highlighted on the KXAN event page. Those eager to register can do so online, ensuring their place among the stars and science advocates for this cosmic phenomenon.
