Editor’s Note: The above video explains what to expect if it’s cloudy in Central Texas for the total solar eclipse.
FREDERICKSBURG, Texas (KXAN) — One of the world’s most recognizable “science guys” is heading to the Hill Country for the April 8 total solar eclipse.
Bill Nye “the Science Guy” will be in Fredericksburg at the Planetary Society’s Eclipse-O-Rama 2024, a two-day camping festival April 7 and 8 to watch the rare astrological phenomenon. It’ll feature music, science, lodging and more, according to the event’s website.
The fest will take place at The Lodge at Country Inn Cottages — a 200-acre private ranch that will be transformed into a Planetary Society member meet-up, the event page said.
A few of the offerings at the family-friendly festival include talks on astronomy and planetary science, exhibitor and activity booths, “star parties,” hands-on activities, food, and an “unparalleled experience of the total solar eclipse,” the website detailed.
The festival webpage says Fredericksburg was chosen as the event site in part because of its status as an International Dark Sky Community, and because it’s a central location equidistant to Austin and San Antonio airports. Plus, it’s located in the path of totality and will experience 4 minutes and 24 seconds of totality.
Other celebrity guests will be in attendance, including the following: Tim Dodd, the Everyday Astronaut; Bob Pflugfelder, better known as Science Bob; and YouTuber Mark Rober.
Planetary Society stars including astronomer Heidi Hammel, Planetary Society President Bethany Ehlmann, Chief Scientist Bruce Betts, Master of Ceremonies Mat Kaplan, Planetary Radio host Sarah Al-Ahmed, and digital community manager Ambre Trujillo will also be on hand.
The event is open to members of The Planetary Society, the world’s largest and most influential space-interest organization. If you’re interested in attending and you’re not a member already, you can register by joining the society’s basic Explorer level ($50/year) as part of the registration process.
Those interested in attending can register online. General admission for the fest starts at $325.