ASU-Beebe Hosts Community Eclipse Viewing Events Across Beebe, Heber Springs, Searcy Campuses
02/19/2024
BEEBE, Ark. — With less than 50 days until April 8, Arkansas will be front and center for a celestial spectacle - the total solar eclipse – and Arkansas State University-Beebe announced its Beebe, Heber Springs and Searcy campuses as premier viewing sites.
Each campus offers a unique vantage point along the path of totality, ensuring an extraordinary viewing experience for travelers. Attendees can purchase commemorative t-shirts and merchandise, indulge in tasty offerings from food trucks, and access first aid stations for added comfort and safety. Eclipse glasses will be provided while supplies last, allowing attendees to witness the eclipse safely. ASU-Beebe extends complimentary parking to students and employees at all locations.
“ASU-Beebe encourages everyone to gather and witness this awe-inspiring event together, fostering connections, learning, and celebration under the extraordinary sky," said Andrea Cole, ASU-Beebe's development officer. "Save the date, bring your lawn chairs, and prepare for an unforgettable celestial spectacle on April 8."
Here are details for each site:
Beebe
Campus location: 610 North Pecan Street, Beebe, Ark. The central viewing location will be near the Dr. Eugene McKay Student Center track.
Totality duration: 2 minutes 36 seconds, beginning at 12:35 p.m.
Parking: Onsite parking is available for $20 per vehicle (cash only), with entry from Pecan Street off Dewitt Henry Drive starting at 7 a.m.
Searcy
Campus location: 1800 E. Moore Ave., Searcy, Ark. The main viewing area will be the lawn area off Moore Ave., adjacent to Berryhill Park activities.
Totality duration: 2 minutes and 57 seconds, starting at 12:35 p.m.
Parking: Parking is available for $10 per vehicle (cash only), with entry on Davis Drive beginning at 7 a.m.
Heber Springs
Campus location: 101 Rivercrest Drive, Heber Springs, Ark. The main viewing area will be the lawn area at the front of the campus.
Totality duration: 4 minutes 4 seconds, starting at 12:35 p.m.
Parking: Onsite parking is available for $20 per vehicle (cash only), with lots opening at 7 a.m. Note: Access to Sugarloaf Mountain will be closed from 6 p.m. on April 7 to 8 a.m. on April 9 for safety reasons.
For those unable to attend in person, ASU-Beebe will live stream the eclipse from the picturesque Heber Springs campus on the ASU-Beebe YouTube channel, enabling viewers to experience the event from the comfort of their own space.
For large groups, please contact Andrea Cole at (501) 882-8903 or via email at aecole@asub.edu to arrange parking accommodations.
Stay updated on all eclipse-related information by visiting www.asub.edu/2024-eclipse/.