MARCH 27, 2024 (AUSTIN, TX) — The Bullock Museum is hosting two programs focusing on the science of eclipses and how to safely view them in the lead-up to the April 8, 2024 total solar eclipse — the only total solar eclipse visible in the Lone Star State during the first half of the 21^st century. Visitors to the Museum can also view Apollo-era NASA artifacts and purchase eclipse glasses in the Museum store while supplies last.

“Texas will have some of the best views of the total solar eclipse,” said Kristin Johnson, Family Programs Manager at the Bullock Museum, “and the Bullock Museum is excited to provide a variety of activities for the community as we prepare to witness this historic event together.”

On Wednesday, April 3, from noon to 1 p.m., visitors can join renowned astrophysicist Dr. Rob Pettengill for a High Noon Talk covering the Great American Total Solar Eclipse. Dr. Pettengill, NASA JPL Solar System Ambassador and Astronomy in Chile Education Ambassador, will delve into the science of eclipses, provide information on safety during the eclipse, and give tips on how best to capture the eclipse with any camera.

The eclipse-centric programs continue on Sunday, April 7 during H-E-B Free First Sunday. Visitors can meet with NASA Ambassador Sophie Gairo and representatives from the McDonald Observatory to learn about the upcoming solar eclipse. Families may also participate in STEM demonstrations with GirlStart and engage in a storytime with Austin Public Library. Museum admission is free for all visitors from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. Eclipse-specific activities will take place from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m.

Visitors can also explore the profound connection between the moon and Texas history on the third floor of the Bullock Museum’s Texas History Galleries. Artifacts on view include a moon rock, collected during the historic Apollo 17 mission that marks humanity’s last lunar steps. This lunar sample, part of a larger sample known as the Goodwill rock, was broken up and distributed around the world. This act was a symbol of the unity of human endeavor and humankind’s hope for a future of peace and harmony. Additionally, visitors step back in time to the iconic moment of the Apollo 11 lunar landing as they watch Walter Cronkite’s historic broadcast and view an authentic Apollo-era Mission Control console from the renowned Johnson Space Center.

The Bullock Museum is open Monday through Sunday, 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. For more information on upcoming programs or to plan your visit to the exhibition galleries or Museum store, visit TheStoryofTexas.com.

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H-E-B Free First Sundays presented by H-E-B.

The Bullock Museum, a division of the Texas State Preservation Board, is funded by Museum members, donors, and patrons, the Texas State History Museum Foundation, and the State of Texas.

 

ABOUT THE BULLOCK MUSEUM

The Bullock Texas State History Museum, a division of the State Preservation Board and an accredited institution of the American Alliance of Museums, illuminates and celebrates Texas history, people, and culture. With dynamic, award-winning exhibitions, educational programming for all ages, and an IMAX® theater with one of the largest screens in Texas, the Museum collaborates with more than 700 museums, libraries, archives and individuals across the world to bring the Story of Texas to life.

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​​The Bullock Texas State History Museum, a division of the State Preservation Board and an accredited institution of the American Alliance of Museums, creates experiences that educate, engage, and encourage a deeper understanding of Texas. With dynamic, award-winning exhibitions that illuminate Texas history, people, and culture, educational programming for all ages, and an IMAX® theater with a screen the size of Texas, the Museum collaborates with more than 700 museums, libraries, archives, organizations, and individuals across the world to bring the Story of Texas to life. For more information, visit www.TheStoryofTexas.com or call (866)369-7108.