Historians believe the Irish were the first to record a solar eclipse. Read the history.

Following in our ancestor’s footsteps, the Irish-named town of Bandon, Oregon will be among the first to record this year’s annular solar eclipse when it reaches the United States on October 14. 

An annular solar eclipse happens when the Moon, at or near its farthest point from Earth, passes between the Sun and Earth. Because the Moon is too far away from the Earth to completely block out the sun, it creates a brilliant ring sometimes called a “ring of fire.”

In Bandon, the partial eclipse begins at 8:05AM and lasts about 2.5 hours. The annular eclipse begins at 9:16 AM PDT and lasts about 3 minutes.

Plan to head to the giant sea stack “stones” on Bandon’s coast for this rare and gorgeous viewing event. You'll want to join the fun at our early-morning watch party and view the eclipse with other celestial watchers from here, there, and everywhere. 

Remember to bring your chairs, a cozy blanket, delicious snacks, and a flask filled with your favorite hot beverage. And of course, don't forget your eclipse glasses and telescopes for an up-close view!