Total Eclipse In Kentucky 2025 A Celestial Event

Total Eclipse in Kentucky 2025

Kentucky will experience a total solar eclipse on April 8, 2025, offering a spectacular celestial event for residents and visitors alike. This eclipse follows the one in 2024, providing a unique opportunity for comparison and further study of these significant astronomical occurrences. The path of totality will traverse the state, offering varying durations of totality depending on location.

Path of Totality Across Kentucky

The path of totality for the 2025 total solar eclipse will cut across a significant portion of Kentucky, moving from southwest to northeast. Cities and towns along this path will experience the full effect of the eclipse, with the sun completely obscured by the moon. The precise width of the path of totality will vary slightly, but generally, locations within this band will witness the total eclipse. Areas outside the path will experience a partial eclipse, with a lesser degree of obscuration. The specific towns and cities experiencing totality will be widely publicized closer to the date of the eclipse by NASA and other astronomical organizations. Detailed maps showing the path’s precise trajectory will become readily available.

Expected Time of Eclipse Peak in Major Kentucky Cities

Predicting the exact time of the eclipse’s peak in various Kentucky cities requires precise astronomical calculations. However, we can anticipate that the peak will occur within a relatively narrow time window across the state, likely within a few minutes of each other for major cities situated along the path of totality. For example, if the peak time in Paducah is calculated to be 2:00 PM CDT, then cities further northeast along the path of totality, such as Lexington or Louisville, might experience the peak only a few minutes later. Precise times will be available from reputable sources such as NASA and timeanddate.com closer to the date of the eclipse.

Comparison of 2024 and 2025 Eclipse Visibility in Kentucky

Kentucky experienced a partial solar eclipse in April 2024. The 2025 eclipse offers a significant difference: the path of totality will directly cross the state. In 2024, only a partial eclipse was visible across the entire state, with the degree of partial eclipse varying depending on location. The 2025 event, however, will provide a dramatic contrast, with the opportunity for many Kentuckians to witness a total solar eclipse – a far more impactful and awe-inspiring experience than a partial eclipse.

Scientific Significance of Observing the Total Solar Eclipse

Observing a total solar eclipse provides invaluable opportunities for scientific research. The brief period of totality allows scientists to study the sun’s corona, the outermost part of its atmosphere, which is usually obscured by the brighter light of the sun’s surface. This period also offers a unique chance to study the effects of the eclipse on Earth’s atmosphere and other environmental factors. Citizen scientists can also contribute to data collection, using specialized equipment and recording observations. Data gathered during these eclipses contributes to a greater understanding of solar physics and its impact on our planet. Past eclipses have led to significant advancements in our understanding of solar flares, coronal mass ejections, and other solar phenomena.

Best Viewing Locations in Kentucky: Total Eclipse In Kentucky 2025

Kentucky offers numerous excellent locations to witness the 2025 total solar eclipse, each with unique advantages. Selecting the perfect spot depends on individual preferences regarding accessibility, crowd size, and the surrounding environment. Factors like weather predictability and the presence of local events also contribute to the overall viewing experience.

Total Eclipse In Kentucky 2025 – Choosing the ideal location requires careful consideration of several key factors. The path of totality, weather patterns, accessibility, and anticipated crowd sizes all play significant roles in determining the best viewing spots. Furthermore, personal preferences, such as whether you prefer a secluded or communal viewing experience, should also be taken into account.

Kentucky is poised to experience a spectacular total solar eclipse in 2025, a celestial event many are eagerly anticipating. To best plan your viewing experience, understanding the precise path of totality is crucial. You can find a detailed map outlining the Route Of Total Eclipse 2025 , which will help you pinpoint the optimal location within Kentucky for witnessing this breathtaking phenomenon.

Secure your spot early to fully enjoy the Kentucky eclipse.

Top Five Eclipse Viewing Locations in Kentucky

Based on a combination of factors, including historical weather data, accessibility, and projected crowd sizes, here are five prime locations in Kentucky for optimal eclipse viewing:

1. Hopkinsville: Historically known for its excellent weather during eclipses and centrally located within the path of totality, Hopkinsville offers a blend of accessibility and planned events. It is expected to draw a large crowd. Geographical coordinates: Approximately 36.82° N, 87.62° W.
2. Bowling Green: Situated in a region with generally favorable weather conditions, Bowling Green provides a balance between accessibility and potentially smaller crowds compared to Hopkinsville. Geographical coordinates: Approximately 36.97° N, 86.46° W.
3. Paducah: Located in western Kentucky, Paducah offers a chance for a more tranquil viewing experience, potentially with smaller crowds than central Kentucky locations. Its proximity to the Mississippi River adds scenic appeal. Geographical coordinates: Approximately 37.0° N, 88.3° W.
4. Princeton: This location provides a more rural setting within the path of totality, offering a potentially quieter and more secluded viewing experience. Geographical coordinates: Approximately 37.01° N, 87.62° W.
5. Murray: Similar to Princeton, Murray offers a balance of accessibility and a more secluded viewing experience, potentially drawing a smaller crowd compared to larger cities. Geographical coordinates: Approximately 36.6° N, 88.2° W.

Map of Prime Viewing Locations

Imagine a map of Kentucky showing the path of totality as a thick, dark band across the state. The five locations listed above are marked with clear pins, each labeled with its name and approximate geographical coordinates. The map also indicates major highways and nearby towns for context. The map’s scale would allow viewers to easily visualize the relative distances between these prime viewing locations.

Kentucky’s 2025 total eclipse promises to be a spectacular event, drawing large crowds to witness this celestial phenomenon. For those interested in similar viewing opportunities elsewhere, you might consider checking out the Waco Total Eclipse 2025 which offers a different perspective on the same event. Ultimately, the Kentucky eclipse will undoubtedly be a memorable experience, offering a unique chance to observe the sun’s corona.

Tips for Choosing a Viewing Spot

The ideal viewing spot hinges on individual preferences. Consider these factors:

• Secluded vs. Communal: Do you prefer a peaceful, solitary experience, or the energy of a large gathering? Hopkinsville will be bustling, while Princeton offers a more tranquil setting.
• Accessibility: Consider proximity to roads, restrooms, and other amenities. Larger towns will have more readily available services.
• Amenities: Will you need access to electricity, water, or other resources? Plan accordingly based on your chosen location.
• Weather History: Research historical weather data for your chosen location to assess the likelihood of clear skies during the eclipse.

Local Events and Festivals

Many communities along the path of totality are planning events and festivals to celebrate the 2025 eclipse. Specific details are still developing, but expect a range of activities, from viewing parties and educational programs to concerts and other community gatherings. Check local tourism websites and event calendars closer to the eclipse date for the most up-to-date information on events in Hopkinsville, Bowling Green, Paducah, Princeton, and Murray.

Kentucky will experience a spectacular total solar eclipse in 2025, a celestial event not to be missed. For those interested in comparing viewing times across the country, check out the precise timings for the eclipse on the west coast by visiting the website detailing Total Eclipse 2025 In California Time . Returning to Kentucky’s eclipse, remember to plan your viewing location well in advance to secure the best possible experience.

Safety Precautions During the Eclipse

Witnessing a total solar eclipse is a truly awe-inspiring event, but it’s crucial to prioritize your eye safety. Looking directly at the sun, even during a partial eclipse, can cause serious and permanent eye damage, including blindness. Proper eye protection is non-negotiable.

The sun’s intense radiation can severely damage the retina, the light-sensitive tissue at the back of your eye. This damage can occur even without feeling any immediate pain. During an eclipse, the reduced brightness can trick your eyes into thinking it’s safe to look directly at the sun, but this is a dangerous misconception. The sun’s harmful rays remain potent throughout the eclipse, leading to potential retinal burns or even solar retinopathy, a condition that can result in vision loss or blindness.

Necessary Eye Protection

Safe solar viewing requires specialized eyewear that meets the ISO 12312-2 international safety standard. These are not ordinary sunglasses; regular sunglasses, even very dark ones, offer insufficient protection against the sun’s harmful rays. Only eclipse glasses that are specifically designed and certified to meet this standard should be used. These glasses have very dark filters that block out almost all of the sun’s harmful ultraviolet (UV), visible, and infrared (IR) light.

Safe Use of Eclipse Glasses

Before looking at the sun, always inspect your eclipse glasses carefully. Check for any scratches, dents, or damage to the lenses. Discard any glasses that show signs of damage. To use them correctly, hold the glasses up to your eyes and make sure they completely block out the sun. Never look at the sun through the glasses without them being fully covering your eyes. If you are sharing glasses with someone, always make sure the glasses are not damaged before each use.

Resources for Obtaining Certified Eclipse Glasses

Many reputable online retailers and science museums sell ISO 12312-2 certified eclipse glasses. Check with local astronomy clubs or planetariums as they often offer glasses for sale or may have information about local vendors. It’s crucial to ensure the glasses you purchase come from a reliable source and have the ISO 12312-2 certification clearly marked on the packaging. Avoid buying glasses from unreliable sources, as counterfeit glasses might not offer adequate protection. The American Astronomical Society (AAS) website is an excellent resource for finding reputable vendors and confirming the authenticity of eclipse glasses. For example, the AAS website might list vendors who have been verified to sell ISO-compliant glasses.

Kentucky’s Eclipse History & Cultural Impact

Kentucky, like much of North America, has witnessed numerous solar eclipses throughout its history. While detailed records aren’t readily available for every event, the impact of these celestial occurrences on the state’s inhabitants, from Native American tribes to modern-day communities, is undeniable, shaping cultural perspectives and leaving behind a legacy of awe and wonder. The upcoming 2025 eclipse promises to be another significant chapter in this ongoing narrative.

The historical significance of past eclipses in Kentucky is intertwined with the broader history of astronomical observation and the evolution of scientific understanding. Early accounts, often passed down through oral traditions, likely interpreted eclipses through a lens of mythology and superstition. Later, with the advancement of scientific knowledge, eclipses became opportunities for scientific study and data collection, contributing to our understanding of the solar system. These events, regardless of their interpretation, have consistently marked moments of collective experience, shaping the cultural landscape of the state.

Accounts of Past Eclipse Experiences in Kentucky

While detailed firsthand accounts from earlier centuries are scarce, we can infer the impact of past eclipses on Kentucky’s inhabitants through various sources. Newspapers from the late 19th and early 20th centuries, for example, likely documented the public’s reaction to these events, providing glimpses into the anxieties, excitement, and wonder that accompanied them. Anecdotal evidence, passed down through generations of families, might include stories of community gatherings, observations from specific locations, or the impact on daily life during periods of temporary darkness. These narratives, however fragmented, offer valuable insights into how Kentuckians have historically experienced and interpreted eclipses. The totality of the experience, the sudden dimming of the sun, and the dramatic shift in the atmosphere, would undoubtedly have created a memorable collective experience.

Cultural and Societal Impact of the 2025 Eclipse

The 2025 total solar eclipse is anticipated to have a profound cultural and societal impact on Kentucky communities. The state is poised to become a major destination for eclipse viewers from across the globe, bringing a significant economic boost through tourism. Beyond the economic benefits, the eclipse will undoubtedly serve as a unifying event, fostering a sense of community and shared experience. Local businesses are already preparing for the influx of visitors, and many communities are planning special events and celebrations to mark the occasion. Schools and educational institutions will likely incorporate the eclipse into their curricula, offering valuable learning opportunities for students. The event offers a chance for renewed interest in science and astronomy within the state, potentially inspiring a new generation of scientists and researchers. The collective experience of witnessing this natural phenomenon will likely leave a lasting mark on Kentucky’s cultural memory.

Timeline of Notable Celestial Events in Kentucky’s History

Creating a precise timeline of every eclipse visible from Kentucky throughout its history is difficult due to the limitations of historical records. However, we can highlight some key periods and events:

The following timeline focuses on significant eclipses and astronomical events with a verifiable impact or record in the region encompassing present-day Kentucky. Precise dates for many earlier events are difficult to pinpoint due to limitations in historical record-keeping.

• Pre-1800s: Native American tribes inhabiting Kentucky would have observed numerous eclipses, interpreting them within their cultural and spiritual frameworks. These interpretations would have varied significantly among different tribes. Unfortunately, detailed records of their observations are limited.
• Late 19th and Early 20th Centuries: Newspaper accounts and personal diaries from this period offer glimpses into how Kentuckians reacted to and observed eclipses. These accounts often reflect a mixture of scientific curiosity and folklore.
• Mid-20th Century to Present: With the advancement of scientific understanding and technology, eclipses have been observed and documented with greater accuracy. Amateur astronomers and scientific organizations played a crucial role in recording these events and disseminating information.
• August 21, 2017: While not a total eclipse in Kentucky, this event served as a preview for the 2025 eclipse, generating excitement and raising public awareness about the upcoming celestial event.
• April 8, 2024: A partial solar eclipse will be visible across Kentucky, serving as a build-up to the 2025 total solar eclipse.
• April 8, 2024: A partial solar eclipse visible across Kentucky. This event will heighten anticipation for the 2025 total eclipse.

Planning Your Kentucky Eclipse Trip

Planning a weekend trip to Kentucky for the 2025 total solar eclipse requires careful consideration of travel, accommodation, viewing locations, and potential crowds. This itinerary provides a framework for a memorable experience, blending eclipse viewing with exploration of Kentucky’s attractions.

Sample Weekend Eclipse Itinerary

This itinerary focuses on a trip centered around the eclipse, assuming arrival on Friday and departure on Sunday. Adjustments can be made based on your specific interests and travel time.

Friday: Arrive in Lexington (LEX) or Louisville (SDF), depending on your chosen viewing location. Check into your accommodation. Spend the afternoon exploring the city – Lexington offers horse farms and bourbon distilleries, while Louisville boasts its vibrant arts scene and the Louisville Slugger Museum. Enjoy dinner at a local restaurant.

Kentucky residents eagerly anticipate the Total Eclipse in 2025, a celestial event promising a breathtaking spectacle. A key question on many minds is whether the eclipse will bring complete darkness, and to find out, you might want to check this informative resource: Will There Be Total Darkness During The Eclipse 2025. Understanding the extent of darkness is crucial for planning viewing experiences during the Kentucky eclipse.

Saturday: Travel to your designated eclipse viewing spot. Set up camp or find a comfortable viewing location. Enjoy the pre-eclipse activities, potentially including talks or presentations from local astronomers. Witness the total solar eclipse! Celebrate the celestial event with fellow eclipse watchers. Have a celebratory dinner after the eclipse.

Kentucky will experience a total solar eclipse in 2025, a truly spectacular celestial event. Planning your viewing location is key for optimal viewing, and to help you decide, you might find this resource helpful: Where To Go For Total Eclipse 2025. This guide will assist in selecting the perfect spot in Kentucky, or elsewhere, to witness this rare astronomical phenomenon.

Don’t miss out on the incredible sight of the 2025 total eclipse in Kentucky!

Sunday: Depending on your location, visit Mammoth Cave National Park or other nearby attractions. Depart from Kentucky.

Recommended Nearby Attractions and Activities

Beyond the eclipse, Kentucky offers diverse attractions. Mammoth Cave National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage site, provides extensive cave systems to explore. For bourbon enthusiasts, distilleries in Lexington and Louisville offer tours and tastings. History buffs can visit historic sites like Shaker Village of Pleasant Hill or the Abraham Lincoln Birthplace National Historical Park. Outdoor activities abound, including hiking, fishing, and boating.

Transportation and Logistics

Transportation during the eclipse will be crucial. Roads will likely be congested, especially near the path of totality. Consider arriving a day or two early to avoid traffic jams. Public transportation options may be limited in some areas, so a personal vehicle is recommended. Pre-booking transportation and accommodation is strongly advised. Real-time traffic apps and GPS navigation will be essential tools. For example, Waze or Google Maps can provide real-time traffic updates.

Accommodation Options

Accommodation options range widely, catering to various budgets and preferences. Camping offers a budget-friendly option, providing proximity to nature and a potentially unique eclipse viewing experience. Numerous campgrounds exist near the path of totality. Hotels and motels in larger cities like Lexington and Louisville offer more amenities but may require longer travel times to eclipse viewing sites. Airbnb and VRBO provide alternative accommodation options, offering diverse choices from cozy cabins to larger homes. Booking well in advance is essential, particularly given the expected influx of visitors for the eclipse. For example, securing a hotel room six months in advance could be prudent.

Photography Tips for the Eclipse

Capturing a total solar eclipse on camera is a challenging but rewarding endeavor. With the right preparation and technique, you can create stunning images that will serve as lasting memories of this rare celestial event. This guide will walk you through the essential steps and considerations for photographing the 2025 eclipse.

Necessary Equipment and Settings

Successful eclipse photography requires specialized equipment and careful camera settings. A DSLR or mirrorless camera with manual controls is essential. A telephoto lens with a focal length of at least 400mm is recommended to capture details of the sun and corona; longer focal lengths (800mm or more) will yield even more impressive results. A sturdy tripod is absolutely crucial to prevent camera shake, especially during long exposures. Consider using a remote shutter release to minimize vibrations. For optimal results, shoot in RAW format to preserve image data for post-processing. Appropriate ISO settings will depend on your lens and ambient light conditions, but generally, a lower ISO (e.g., 100-400) is preferred to minimize noise. Aperture settings should be adjusted to achieve the desired depth of field and exposure; experiment with different f-stops (e.g., f/8 to f/16) to find the optimal setting. Shutter speed will vary dramatically depending on the phase of the eclipse and your other settings, potentially ranging from a fraction of a second to several seconds.

Step-by-Step Guide to Photographing the Total Solar Eclipse

1. Pre-Eclipse Preparations: Before the eclipse begins, thoroughly test your equipment and settings in a similar lighting environment. Practice focusing on distant objects to ensure your lens is working correctly. Familiarize yourself with your camera’s manual controls.
2. Partial Eclipse Photography: Use a solar filter on your lens throughout the partial phases of the eclipse. This is crucial to protect your equipment and your eyes. Experiment with different exposure settings to capture the sun’s partially obscured disc.
3. Totality: Remove the solar filter *only* during the brief period of totality. This is the only time it’s safe to view and photograph the sun’s corona without protection. Quickly adjust your settings for the dramatically different lighting conditions. Use a faster shutter speed to freeze the motion of the corona, but experiment with longer exposures (several seconds) to capture its faint details.
4. Post-Totality: Immediately reattach the solar filter once totality ends. Continue photographing the partial phases as the moon moves away from the sun.
5. Post-Processing: Review your images and make adjustments as needed using photo editing software. RAW format allows for greater flexibility in post-processing, enabling you to correct exposure, contrast, and other aspects of your photos.

Capturing the Corona and Other Eclipse Phenomena

The corona, the sun’s outer atmosphere, is a breathtaking sight during totality. To capture its intricate details, use a telephoto lens with a long focal length and experiment with longer exposure times. The specific settings will depend on the brightness of the corona and ambient light conditions. Consider bracketing your exposures (taking multiple shots at different settings) to ensure you capture a well-exposed image. Other phenomena to capture include the diamond ring effect (just before and after totality), prominences (eruptions of solar material), and shadow bands (wave-like patterns on the ground just before and after totality). These require fast shutter speeds to freeze their fleeting appearance.

Composing Unique and Memorable Eclipse Photos, Total Eclipse In Kentucky 2025

Consider including elements of the landscape in your composition to add context and create more compelling images. This could be trees, mountains, or other features of your location. Experiment with different angles and perspectives to capture unique viewpoints. Try capturing the eclipse’s shadow as it moves across the landscape. Incorporate human elements subtly, such as silhouettes of people reacting to the eclipse. Remember that the eclipse is a fleeting event, so plan your shots carefully and be prepared to react quickly to changing light conditions.

Economic Impact of the Eclipse on Kentucky

The total solar eclipse of 2024 presents a significant opportunity for economic growth in Kentucky. The influx of visitors from across the country and even internationally, drawn to witness this rare celestial event, is expected to generate substantial revenue for businesses across the state. This economic boost will be felt most acutely in communities located within the path of totality, but the positive effects will ripple outwards, benefiting Kentucky’s economy as a whole.

The anticipated economic benefits are multifaceted, encompassing increased spending in hospitality, retail, and tourism sectors. Local businesses, from restaurants and hotels to souvenir shops and gas stations, are poised to experience a surge in sales. The ripple effect will extend to related industries, such as transportation and entertainment, further amplifying the overall economic impact. Moreover, the positive media attention surrounding the eclipse will enhance Kentucky’s image as a tourist destination, potentially leading to long-term economic gains.

Economic Impact on Local Communities

The economic impact will vary significantly depending on a community’s proximity to the path of totality and its existing infrastructure to accommodate tourists. Towns and cities directly in the path of totality are expected to see the most dramatic increase in revenue. For example, Hopkinsville, a city within the path of totality in 2017, experienced a significant economic boost during the eclipse, demonstrating the potential for similar success in 2024. Smaller communities along the path may also see disproportionately large increases in revenue relative to their size, provided they adequately prepare for the influx of visitors. Conversely, communities further from the path of totality may experience a more moderate increase in economic activity.

Business Preparations for Increased Visitor Traffic

Many Kentucky businesses are proactively preparing for the anticipated surge in tourism. Hotels and motels are reporting high booking rates, with many already fully booked for the eclipse weekend. Restaurants are increasing staffing levels and adjusting their menus to accommodate the expected demand. Retailers are stocking up on eclipse-themed merchandise and other goods to cater to the influx of visitors. Local governments are working to ensure adequate infrastructure, including parking, sanitation, and emergency services, to manage the increased population. Some communities are even organizing special eclipse-related events and activities to attract visitors and maximize the economic benefits.

Estimated Economic Impact Across Kentucky Regions

Region	Estimated Visitor Spending (Millions USD)	Estimated Direct Economic Impact (Millions USD)	Estimated Indirect Economic Impact (Millions USD)
Western Kentucky (Path of Totality)	50-75	100-150	50-75
Central Kentucky (Near Path of Totality)	25-40	50-80	25-40
Eastern Kentucky (Outside Path of Totality)	10-20	20-40	10-20
Statewide Total (Estimate)	85-135	170-270	85-135

Note: These figures are estimates and the actual economic impact may vary depending on several factors, including weather conditions, visitor numbers, and the effectiveness of preparedness efforts. The figures are based on projections from similar past eclipse events and economic modeling specific to Kentucky’s tourism sector.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Planning for the 2025 total solar eclipse in Kentucky involves many considerations. This FAQ section addresses some common questions to help you prepare for this once-in-a-lifetime event. We’ve compiled information to help ensure you have a safe and enjoyable experience.

Best Eclipse Viewing Times Across Kentucky

The exact time of the total eclipse will vary slightly across Kentucky, depending on location. The path of totality traverses the state, meaning that different cities and towns will experience the total eclipse at different times. For example, while Hopkinsville, a city known for its excellent viewing opportunities in 2017, might experience totality at 3:00 PM, a location further east might experience it at 3:10 PM. To determine the precise timing for your specific location, you should consult detailed eclipse maps and interactive tools readily available online from NASA or other reputable sources. These tools often allow you to input your address or GPS coordinates to get a customized viewing schedule. Remember to factor in travel time to your viewing location.

Safe Eclipse Glasses Sourcing

Protecting your eyes during a solar eclipse is crucial. Never look directly at the sun without proper eye protection. Safe solar viewing glasses must meet the ISO 12312-2 international safety standard. You can purchase these glasses from reputable online retailers, science museums, planetariums, and some astronomy clubs. Be wary of counterfeit glasses; check for the ISO certification before purchasing. Many organizations and retailers participated in safe glasses distribution for the 2017 eclipse, and similar initiatives are expected for 2025.

Risks of Improper Eye Protection

Observing the sun without proper eye protection can lead to serious and permanent eye damage, including solar retinopathy. This condition can cause blurred vision, blind spots, and even complete vision loss. The sun’s intense radiation can damage the retina, the light-sensitive tissue at the back of your eye, causing irreversible harm. Even a brief glimpse at the sun during the partial phases of the eclipse can cause significant damage. Therefore, using certified eclipse glasses is non-negotiable for safe viewing.

Expected Weather During the Eclipse

Predicting the weather several years in advance is challenging, but historical weather data for Kentucky in April can provide a general idea. April in Kentucky typically experiences a mix of sunny and cloudy days, with temperatures ranging from mild to moderately warm. However, weather conditions can vary significantly across the state. Monitoring weather forecasts closely in the weeks and days leading up to the eclipse is essential to ensure you’re prepared for any potential changes. Having a backup plan in case of inclement weather is always advisable.

Other Events in Kentucky Around the Eclipse

The 2025 total solar eclipse is expected to generate significant interest and tourism, leading to various related events across Kentucky. Many towns and cities along the path of totality are likely to organize festivals, viewing parties, and educational programs. Check local event listings, tourism websites, and news sources closer to the eclipse date for a complete schedule of activities. This is an opportunity to explore Kentucky’s unique attractions and culture while experiencing this celestial event.