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UPDATED PHOTOS: Murfreesboro went dark around 1:30 Monday (8/21/2017) afternoon as the Great American Total Solar Eclipse breezed across our city at 1,800 miles per hour. The weather was great, except for a few clouds that occasionally drifted across the sun.
How dark was it? One resident described it as the feel of a little after the sun sets. And yes, it was dark enough for street lights to come on--even outdoor lights at homes.
And those in rural areas reported roosters crowing as we went out of the total eclipse and back into the first phase of sunlight.
Everyone described the temperature as being noticably cooler as the sun faded.
Individuals had friends over across the area and a major viewing party was held by the Linebaugh Library on the Murfreesboro Civic Plaza.
But, the largest were the thousands that gathered at Middle Tennessee State University in the green plaza near the Walker Library. MTSU President Sidney McPhee noted that the university was an official NASA site. There were large screens placed around the viewing area and scientists explained what was happening as the crowds viewed the total solar eclipse. Approximately 7,000 spectators, including Murfreesboro City School students, went to MTSU where scientists gave a running play-by-play to what was happening. One described it as having the excitement of being at a ball game coupled with the thrill of watching Mr. Wizard as a child for the boomers.
There was also a large crowd at the Veterans Memorial Park in La Vergne.
Reports also indicate there were even a few weddings that took place during the total solar eclipse.
This is the first time since 1776 that an American only eclipse has happened. Of course, that was not a total eclipse like we saw on Monday. The last total eclipse took place about 500 years ago.
By the way, our next Total Solar Eclipse here in the 'Boro is scheduled for 2566. Take care of yourself and stay fit--that's 549 years from now.
Eclipses viewable from this area:
