Solar Viewing Event at Fort Clinch State Park
Saturday, August 22, 2026
9:00–10:00 a.m. and 10:00–11:00 a.m.
Join Fort Clinch State Park and the Friends of Fort Clinch for a special Solar Viewing Event featuring members of the Northeast Florida Astronomical Society.
This free, family-friendly event is open to the public. Bring the kids, invite your friends, and enjoy a fun and educational morning exploring our nearest star. Regular Fort Clinch State Park entrance fees apply.
Experience the Sun in a way you've never seen before! Using specially filtered solar telescopes provided by the Northeast Florida Astronomical Society, visitors will safely observe the Sun's fascinating surface and discover features that are invisible to the naked eye.
Depending on solar activity that day, you may have the opportunity to see:
- Brilliant sunspots—cooler, darker regions caused by intense magnetic activity.
- Solar prominences—spectacular loops and arches of glowing hydrogen gas extending from the Sun's edge.
- Bright active regions where magnetic energy is concentrated.
- The Sun's textured surface, known as granulation, created by massive currents of hot gas rising and falling.
- If conditions are favorable, you may even witness a solar flare or other dynamic solar activity.
Members of the Northeast Florida Astronomical Society will be on hand to explain what you're seeing, answer questions, and share fascinating facts about our nearest star.
Event Details
• Saturday, August 22, 2026 for 2 morning sessions 9am and 10am
• Space is limited so registration is required. Pick your preferred time slot
• Normal park admission fees are required
Arrival & Parking
• From the main gate, proceed down Canopy Road
• Turn right at the sign for the Beach and Atlantic Campground
• Turn right at the sign for Beach Access
• The event will held in the Beach Access parking lot
Whether you're a first-time observer or a longtime astronomy enthusiast, this is a unique opportunity for the whole family to safely explore the Sun through professional solar telescopes.
We hope you'll join us for this unforgettable morning of discovery at Fort Clinch State Park!
