The Montsec Astronomical Park, along with the Observatory of the Ebro, has prepared a special event for the solar eclipse on August 12th, which will be visible throughout Spain. For the first time, many of the activities will move from Àger to four locations across Catalunya.
The program, named 'Catalunya mira al cel' (Catalunya looks at the sky), will run from August 10th to 13th and will offer a dozen conferences, workshops, and three film screenings. The aim is to turn this astronomical event into a celebration of scientific dissemination and knowledge, with the collaboration of the Generalitat.
The conferences will cover topics such as the history of eclipses, Arthur Eddington's expedition, space meteorology, and current astronomical research. The intention is to highlight that a total eclipse is not just a visual spectacle but also a source of scientific advancements.
The main observation points set up by the Generalitat include Lleida (around the Mangraners football field and the Turó de la Seu Vella), Les Borges Blanques (around the Ramon Espasa Municipal Stadium), and the Observatory of the Ebro in Roquetes. Tickets for Lleida have already sold out.
The Observatory of the Ebro, although closed to the public on the day of the eclipse for researchers and media, will conduct a live broadcast via its YouTube channel. Additionally, practical workshops are planned, such as making sundials, cyanotype photography, and solarigraphy, as well as film screenings with scientific short films and a showing of 'Le Voyage dans la Lune'.
Following the eclipse, the Montsec Astronomical Park will also organize night sessions to observe the Perseids, which coincide with their peak activity this year.
