National Air Force museum prepares eclipse event for up to 30K

The National Museum of the U.S. Air Force is preparing for as many as 30,000 visitors to view the April 8 total solar eclipse.

Special Events Coordinator Taylor Gentry said the museum is preparing a family friendly day, with events like a hot air balloon launch, rocket launches, a raffle, story for children and education about eclipse science.

The total eclipse will last for 2 minutes and 43 seconds starting at 3:09 p.m., though festivities begin at 10 a.m.

Gentry said visitors should bring food and be prepared for a long day at the museum. There also will be food trucks on site and both the Valkyrie Café and Launchpad Shop n’ Snack will be open, but the museum said to expect long lines.

The museum website said that visitors can bring chairs, blankets and even pop-up tents, but open flames and ground stakes are prohibited.

Entry to the event is free, Gentry said.

Eclipse glasses will be for sale in the museum gift shop but visitors are encouraged to bring their own in case supplies run out. Visitors also visit the education tent to learn how to make their own eclipse glasses, the museum website said.

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