Solar Con? Eclipse road trip to Makanda Illinois

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Discussion Overview

The discussion revolves around planning for the solar eclipse on August 21, particularly focusing on travel to Makanda, Illinois. Participants share their travel plans, locations for viewing, and equipment considerations for observing the eclipse. The conversation includes personal anecdotes and logistical questions related to gathering as a community for the event.

Discussion Character

  • Exploratory
  • Debate/contested
  • Technical explanation

Main Points Raised

  • Some participants express a desire to travel to Makanda, Illinois, for the full eclipse experience, citing the limitations of their local viewing conditions.
  • Questions are raised about potential gatherings among forum members in the area, with some expressing interest in meeting others in person.
  • Participants discuss various locations for viewing the eclipse, including parks, campgrounds, and rest areas, weighing the pros and cons of each.
  • There are suggestions for observing equipment, including telescopes and welding goggles, with discussions about budget-friendly alternatives to traditional viewing methods.
  • Some participants share their experiences and plans for using solar filter materials with binoculars, prompting questions about the materials and methods involved.
  • Concerns are raised about weather conditions affecting visibility, with some participants considering multiple locations to increase their chances of a clear view.
  • There are discussions about the feasibility of gathering in public spaces without incurring costs, with suggestions for free locations that offer open areas for setup.

Areas of Agreement / Disagreement

Participants generally agree on the excitement surrounding the eclipse and the desire to gather, but there is no consensus on specific locations or methods for viewing. Multiple competing views on the best equipment and locations remain unresolved.

Contextual Notes

Participants express uncertainty regarding the best viewing locations and the potential for weather-related issues. There are also varying opinions on the effectiveness of different viewing equipment, with some advocating for specific materials while others suggest alternatives.

Who May Find This Useful

This discussion may be useful for individuals planning to travel for the solar eclipse, those interested in gathering with fellow enthusiasts, and anyone seeking advice on viewing equipment and locations.

  • #31
Blank_Stare said:
Binoculars with Solar filter, and individual solar glasses I picked up on Amazon. Also a cheap telescope that was probably bought at K-Mart in the 80's.
hmmmmm i think mine is a little better but probably not by much lol
I will be willing to share what little bit of knowledge i have picked up from my scope useage
 
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  • #32
Just as an F.Y.I guys. I also want everyone to keep in mind. If the weather looks in anyway to be cloudy. I will be moving my spot to set up at to the closest clear skies for the best viewing possible. I will keep everyone that plans to meet up in the loop with the cloud cover and meeting place.
 
  • #33
hsdrop said:
Just as an F.Y.I guys. I also want everyone to keep in mind. If the weather looks in anyway to be cloudy. I will be moving my spot to set up at to the closest clear skies for the best viewing possible. I will keep everyone that plans to meet up in the loop with the cloud cover and meeting place.
Yeah, "Best laid plans of mice and men", right?
 
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  • #34
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  • #35
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  • #36
Weather isn't looking like it will be outstanding...

From Accuweather.com for 8/21/2017:
  • 90°HI
  • RealFeel® 105°
  • Precipitation 51%
  • Sunshine and patchy clouds with a thunderstorm in the area, mainly later; humid

I'm not exactly sure what "patchy" means, but I'm hope it means "a little", as opposed to "a lot".
 
  • #37
I hope this positive trend continues...

  • 92°HI
  • RealFeel® 103°
  • Precipitation 25%
  • Partly sunny and humid
Then again, while the percentage chance of rain seems to have decreased, I think "Partly Cloudy" means more clouds than "Patchy", so that's not a good thing...

Maybe the forecast tomorrow will say 70, and clear? LOL!

Is the weather in Makanda/Carbondale as unpredictable, and fast to change, as it is near the Great Lakes? :oldsurprised:
 
  • #39
Hot, humid, almost no chance of rain, but the cloud cover may disappoint us...

Carbondale 9 AM 10 AM 11 AM 12 PM 1 PM 2 PM 3 PM
Cloud Cover 11.00% 26.00% 35.00% 40.00% 42.00% 41.00% 38.00%

Still 40 hours to the start of the eclipse, and weather forecasts are like picked wildflowers - yesterday's was good while it lasted, but worthless today.

Had hotel troubles - dog has to stay with a neighbor, but that's OK, more room in the rental car now.
We're pulling out in 21 hours. You have my number, if we need to rethink location.
 
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  • #40
Blank_Stare said:
Hot, humid, almost no chance of rain, but the cloud cover may disappoint us...

Carbondale 9 AM 10 AM 11 AM 12 PM 1 PM 2 PM 3 PM
Cloud Cover 11.00% 26.00% 35.00% 40.00% 42.00% 41.00% 38.00%

Still 40 hours to the start of the eclipse, and weather forecasts are like picked wildflowers - yesterday's was good while it lasted, but worthless today.

Had hotel troubles - dog has to stay with a neighbor, but that's OK, more room in the rental car now.
We're pulling out in 21 hours. You have my number, if we need to rethink location.
nope I'll text you when i get close to the lake I'm going to be hitting the road tomorrow night late and drive thru the night with a buddy of mine and my kiddo let me know if you need any thing
 
  • #41
Perfect viewing conditions, despite the hot weather.

Definitely glad we made the trip.

Thanks for helping us select a spot, @hsdrop , no one could have done better.
 
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