WHAT: The University of Illinois Springfield will host an eclipse watch party. While Springfield won't witness the total eclipse, the sun is projected to be approximately 96% obscured by the moon at 2:02 p.m., offering an exciting celestial spectacle for central Illinois, weather permitting.

WHEN: 1-3 p.m., Monday, April 8

WHERE: UIS Student Union north patio

DETAILS: The UIS Astronomy Interest Group will have a solar telescope set up that will provide views of the sun in the partial stages before and after the eclipse. Additionally, participants will have the opportunity to learn how to construct pin-hole cameras for viewing. Free eclipse glasses will be distributed on a first-come, first-served basis, allowing attendees to safely observe the event.

The watch party is free and open to UIS students, faculty, staff and the general public.