News Release

VINCENNES — Vincennes University is excited to play host to a celestial spectacle during the total solar eclipse in Vincennes on Monday, April 8. Recognizing the rarity and significance of this astronomical event, VU is gearing up to host Total Eclipse of the Heartland, a unique and unforgettable experience for the university community and visitors alike.

The Vincennes campus will be a hub of excitement with a series of free events, educational programs and festivities designed to engage participants of all ages.

“As we prepare to host captivating events during the total solar eclipse, we are embracing the extraordinary opportunity to create an atmosphere where the convergence of science and wonder make the total solar eclipse a truly unforgettable experience for all who gather on campus,” VU College of Science, Engineering, and Mathematics Dean Curt Coffman said.

With the longest darkness in the state of Indiana at four minutes and five seconds, Vincennes is poised to be a prime destination for sky gazers and astronomy enthusiasts for the “Great North American Eclipse.”

As a location along the path of totality, VU will provide a front-row seat to the universe’s wonders, where the moon passes between the sun and earth, completely obscuring the sun. From expert-led discussions on the science behind solar eclipses to family-friendly activities and viewing parties, VU is committed to creating an inclusive and enriching environment that allows everyone to marvel at the wonders of the cosmos. The eclipse begins in Vincennes at 1:46 p.m. E.T., with maximum coverage at 3:04 p.m. and ends at 4:20 p.m.

On Monday, April 8, 2024, VU classes will dismiss at noon local time and no classes will meet after that time on that day. All university offices will close at noon local time that day and employees will be dismissed for the day, except those designated to support essential operations and eclipse activities.

VU is orchestrating a vibrant array of thrilling and engaging events on campus.

• Thursday, Feb. 8, 2024, VU will host “ Experiencing Totality – The Great Total Eclipse of 2024” at 11 a.m. E.T. and 6:30 p.m. E.T. in the Red Skelton Performing Arts Center, 20 Red Skelton Blvd. Retired NASA astrophysicist Fred Espenak will discuss what it is like to experience a total eclipse of the sun and share eyewitness accounts of totality from great astronomers of the past and recent experiences. The speaker will also highlight maps and weather prospects along the eclipse path.
• Sunday, April 7, 2024, The Dynamic Eclipse Broadcast Initiative will feature Dr. Jonathan Mangin at Jefferson Student Union, 1401 N. Chestnut St., at 2:30 p.m. E.T. During the presentation, Mangin will explain this project and the measurements he will take from the roof of VU’s Updike Hall Center for Science, Engineering and Mathematics on the day of the eclipse.
• Sunday, April 7, 2024, Laughter Before Darkness will occur at the Red Skelton Museum of American Comedy at 4 p.m. E.T. The family-friendly eclipse-themed event will feature a puppeteer, a magician, and a mime at the museum, 20 Red Skelton Blvd. The event costs $10 per person or $25 per household.
• Monday, April 8, 2024, the campus is hosting an eclipse party for VU students. More details to come.
• Monday, April 8, 2024, the public is invited to view the eclipse on the Vincennes Campus from noon-5 p.m. E.T. at the VU track and field complex, located on the corner of Chestnut St. and Red Skelton Blvd., and Kimmell Park, situated between Oliphant Drive and the Wabash River. Free parking will be available in lots on Red Skelton Blvd., along the west side of Oliphant Drive, and adjacent to Kimmell Park. Kimmel Park will be pedestrian-only, with the exception of vehicles with boats using the public access site. Public and portable restrooms will be available at each location. Most VU buildings will not be open to the public.

Join VU as we come together to witness this awe-inspiring phenomenon and make lasting memories under the celestial canvas. It will be the last total solar eclipse visible from the contiguous United States until 2044.

For more information, click here.