Chasing Eclipses

Have you ever wondered what it would be like to stand in the shadow of the Moon?

As the Moon blots out the Sun, turning day into night, you will feel like you are in another world. The spine-tingling, goosebump-inducing experience—attainable only on Earth—will leave you in awe.

In the Chasing Eclipses exhibit at the Adler Planetarium, discover how people past and present have predicted when and where to stand in the narrow corridor of totality—and prepare to chase down a total solar eclipse for yourself.

Exhibition Highlights

• Learn what a solar eclipse is and why they are so important.
• Explore artifacts from the Adler’s collection like a pocket orrery, a spectroscope, and a one-of-a-kind eclipse calculator from 1680 to understand how and when solar eclipses occur.
• Uncover the excitement of eclipse chasing through stories of solar eclipse sightings worldwide.
• Get ready for the two upcoming solar eclipses visible across Illinois happening on October 14, 2023, and April 8, 2024.

Featured Online Exhibition: Our Shining Star — The Sun

The Sun rules over our planetary system and is our main source of light and heat. It occupies a prominent place in cultures around the world, has shaped our sense of time, and remains a gateway to better understand the universe. Join the Adler in celebrating the Sun and solar observing throughout the centuries.

Eclipse Encounter ’24

Celebrate the partial solar eclipse this spring at the Adler Planetarium! During our free outdoor Eclipse Encounter ’24 event on April 8, 2024, we’ll have activities around the outside of the planetarium where attendees will be encouraged to walk around, hang out, and observe the sky while the eclipse is happening.

Thanks To Our Sponsors

The Adler Planetarium is grateful to ITW for supporting Chasing Eclipses.