Are you ready, Rochester?
*limited quantity remaining: 3-day pass
tickets are non-refundable
Your ticket includes admission to the RMSC Museum & Science Center + the Strasenburgh Planetarium. Glasses are not included in admission.
Rmsc members receive free admission to the festival!
Register in advance by calling 585.271.4320 or email info@rmsc.org to receive the member discount.
This event is first come, first served. The RMSC cannot guarantee member admission unless you have registered in advance.
Visitors may apply one day’s worth of qualifying tickets from their festival purchase towards a full-year membership to the RMSC.*
*Valid up to April 30, 2024. Inquire at info@rmsc.org or 585.271.4320.
Day 1
Let’s get this party started. Join us on Saturday to dance, ponder, laugh, observe, and wonder!
Day 2
Dive into the science behind astronomical phenomenon, historical & cultural contexts, and just plain FUN science.
Day 3
Join us for activities throughout our campus the day of the Total Solar Eclipse, and then hop on over to the main stage to count down to TOTALITY!
Parking & Shuttles
Visitors will be able to park at the East End & South Ave garages and shuttle in a continuous loop between the RMSC, George Eastman Museum, The Strong National Museum of Play, and the Memorial Art Gallery on Saturday and Sunday with an additional stop at the City of Rochester Public Market on Monday.
When boarding the shuttle, no fee will be required (parking garage fees will still apply).
April 6: 9am–6pm (Last pick up cycle 5:30pm)
April 7: 9am–6pm (Last pick up cycle 5:30pm)
April 8: 8:30am–6:30pm (Last pick up cycle 6:00pm)
Shuttles will pick up an estimated every 10 minutes.
april 6 & 7
9am-6pm
Last pick up: 5:30pm
April 8
8:30am-6:30pm
Last pick up: 6pm
East End Garage
475 E Main St, Rochester, NY 14604
South Ave Garage
39 Stone St, Rochester, NY 14604
Campus maps
Don’t miss these eclipse events!
After dark: Galactic Getdown (Sold Out)
+ Silent disco
- Silent disco in the planetarium
- a galactic menu at the cash bar
- Planetarium shows (included with admission!)
- Speakers from astronomy on tap
- & more!
Admission to this event is not included in your festival ticket
Post-eclipse concert
With rising country singing sensation, Dylan Marlowe on the L3Harris Technologies main stage on April 8.
This event is FREE and open to the public!
VIP Kick-off Event
This VIP ticketed event invites science lovers, space enthusiasts, and RMSC supporters to enjoy a night at the Strasenburgh Planetarium to celebrate the ROC The Eclipse Festival leading up to the Total Solar Eclipse.
Day 1
Dr. Phil Plait has given public talks about astronomy and science education at educational institutions, universities, and community events throughout the US.
His lively and humorous events have, in the past, included balancing eggs on stage and screening clips from blockbuster movies to point out particularly terrible science.
Plait, known as the ‘Bad Astronomer’ online because of his penchant for calling out misinformation, earned his doctorate in astronomy at the University of Virginia, and worked on the Hubble Space Telescope as a NASA contractor at the Goddard Space Flight Center. He is the author of the books ‘Under Alien Skies: A Sightseer’s Guide to the Universe’, ‘Bad Astronomy’, and ‘Death From The Skies’, and writes the thrice-weekly ‘Bad Astronomy’ newsletter that keeps subscribers apprised of the latest sky news. He was the head science writer for “Bill Nye Saves the World” on Netflix in 2017. He wrote and hosted “Crash Course Astronomy”, a 46-part educational web series that has over 70 million views.
guest speakers
Day 2
Cate Larsen, B.S. Geology, is a geo-communicator utilizing the connective power of the internet to bring geology education to the masses. She is known on TikTok, Instagram, and YouTube as the Groovy Geologist. Across multiple platforms, she shares funny videos with trending themes, informative posts about geologic concepts (and misconceptions), and immersive videos explaining and showing real-world examples while out in the field.
Day 3
Dr. Lee M. Morin was selected as an astronaut in 1996. Dr. Morin, a New Hampshire native, holds several degrees including a Doctorate of Medicine and Microbiology from New York University.
The retired U.S. Navy Captain flew aboard STS-110 in 2002, which delivered the S0 (S-Zero) Truss. This voyage was the first time the station’s robotic arm was used for spacewalking as well as the first time that a crew’s spacewalks were based from the station’s Quest Airlock. Dr. Morin performed two spacewalks during STS-110 totaling 14 hours and 9 minutes.
He is currently assigned to the NASA Exploration Branch, where he works on the Orion Multipurpose Crew Vehicle.
Merch! We’ve got you covered (literally).
Make sure to order glasses by April 2 to guarantee delivery before April 8!
This once-in-a-generation Rochester celestial event is something that you and your loved ones will never forget. We’ve got all of the swag you need to remember this event (and stay warm!) for years to come.
RMSC Eclipse glasses are now on sale at the RMSC Museum & Science Center, Strasenburgh Planetarium and Cumming Nature Center–while supplies last!
activities
Things to Do
We’ll have something for everyone all three days of the festival. Check out what’s coming up:
- Planetarium shows throughout each day (first come, first served; Ticket pickup is required)
- Live stage entertainment lineups
- Electricity Theater (Singing Tesla Coils) shows, sponsored by GreenSpark Solar
- Activities and programs in our Lab spaces
- Outdoor telescopes and solar viewing safety
- Science on a Sphere programs
- Post Eclipse concert with rising country sensation, Dylan Marlowe on Monday, April 8th right after totality at 3:30pm!
- And much more!
bites & snackables.
We’ll have Rochester favorites on site along with everything you need to comfortably spend your time with the RMSC throughout this eventful weekend.
Exhibitors
Meet with groups & organizations from the community for hands-on activities to learn more about the science behind eclipses!
- Amateur Radio Emergency Service and Rochester Amateur Radio Association
- ASRAS
- Backyard Lander
- Backyard Lunar Lander
- Bivona Child Advocacy Center
- Brooklyn Robot Foundry Rochester
- Center for Matter at Atomic Pressures
- Cornell Astronomical Society
- Cornell Astronomical Society
- Crafts for Learning
- Empire Space
- FIRST Robotics Team 1511, Rolling Thunder
- Great Lakes Gaming
- GreenSpark Solar
- Jess DeCotis Homes of Howard Hanna
- Joe Wilson Science Consultant Program
- Kaleidoscope Enrichment
- LeafFilter Gutter Protection
- MARS Rocketry Club
- Monkeying Around – Greatest Dot-to-Dot Books – he has space-themed books
- Monroe Community College Optical Systems Technology
- Rochester Institute of Technology
- RIT House of General Science
- RIT Launch Initiative
- RIT Space Exploration Club
- Rochester Birding Association
- ROCLUG
- The 501st Legion, Rebel Legion & Droid Builders Clubs
- University of Rochester Department of Physics & Astronomy
- University of Rochester Institute of Optics
- University of Laboratory for Laser Energetics
- WXXI Public Media
RMSC community eclipse ambassadors
To prepare and excite our community for the incredible shared experience of the Total Solar Eclipse, in 2023, we launched the RMSC Community Eclipse Ambassador Program.
RMSC Community Eclipse Ambassadors are trained in eclipse education, basic astronomy, and eclipse viewing safety. Ambassadors are outfitted with equipment including a telescope with a solar viewing filter, educational materials, solar viewing glasses, and materials for activities. Each organization received a $1,000 stipend for participation.
The goal of the Ambassador program is to excite and educate the community about the April 8th, 2024 Total Solar Eclipse and de-centralize STEM learning into communities, creating access for all.
Participants represent community organizations, businesses, or municipalities and serve people in Rochester and the nine counties (Monroe, Genesee, Livingston, Ontario, Orleans, Seneca, Wayne, Wyoming, and Yates).
- 441 Ministries
- 490 Farmers
- Autism Up
- B. E.R.R! Build, Educate, Rise, and Restore!
- BluePrint Geneva
- Cameron Community Ministries
- City of Rochester Recreation and Human Services
- Corn Hill Waterfront and Navigation Foundation/Sam Patch & Riverie Tour Boats
- Cornell Cooperative Extension of Monroe County
- CP Rochester
- Earthworks
- East House
- Finger Lakes Museum and Yates County Chamber of Commerce
- Finger Lakes Tourism Alliance
- FIRST Robotics X-Cats team191
- Ganondagan State Historic Site
- Gates Chili Middle School – The Outdoor Club
- Genesee Country Village & Museum
- Genesee County Parks, Recreation & Forestry
- George Eastman Museum
- Girl Scouts of WNY
- GRASA Greater Rochester Afterschool & Summer Alliance
- Grupo Cultural Latinos en Rochester
- Hansen Nature Center/Tinker Nature Park
- Helmer Nature Center
- Hilton Parma Hamlin Chamber of Commerce
- Hippocampo Books
- House of Mercy
- IBERO
- Islamic Center of Rochester- Westfall Academy
- Justice and Care for Creation committee of the Sisters of St Joseph of Rochester
- Laughing Gull Chocolates
- Monroe County Library System (MCLS)
- Monroe County Parks
- National Technical Institute of the Deaf, Rochester Institute of Technology
- OWWL Library System
- Perinton Memorial Veterans of Foreign Wars Post 8495
- Rochester Women’s Network
- Scouts BSA, Seneca Waterways
- South East Area Coalition
- St. Bernards Tenant Associations
- St. John’s
- Sweet Ida Mae Pantry
- Temple Emanu-El
- The Community Place
- Town of Perinton Community Center
- United Way of Greater Rochester and the Finger Lakes
- WXXI Education
- YMCA of Greater Rochester
- YWCA of Rochester & Monroe County
This program is generously supported by RMSC partner, Science Sandbox, an initiative of The Simons Foundation.
festival faqs
When is the festival?
Saturday, April 6, 10am–5pm
Sunday, April 7, 10am–5pm
Monday, April 8, 9am–5:30pm
science & glasses safety
How can I tell if my Eclipse glasses are legit?
Look for the manufacturer on the back of the pair of glasses. If you buy them through the RMSC, Livingston County, local organizations listed on RochesterEclipse2024.org, or of any of the manufacturers and resellers mentioned on Eclipse.aas.org under Eye Safety, you’ll be in good hands (or glasses, rather).
You can learn more about safe solar viewing methods at RochesterEclipse2024.org.
Can I use sunglasses for the eclipse?
Hard no. DO NOT USE REGULAR SUNGLASSES! They’re not strong enough to observe the sun and can lead to eye damage. We recommend either using approved eclipse glasses, solar filters, or creating a pinhole viewer to project an image on the ground.
Can I use my eclipse glasses from 2017 or 2021’s solar eclipses?
Absolutely! As long as they haven’t been scratched or damaged.
What happens if it is cloudy on the day of the eclipse?
The eclipse will still happen! It will get dark out (possibly even more noticeable), the temperature will drop by 10 degrees Fahrenheit, and animals will think it is nighttime. It will still be a notable, multi-sensory experience to witness. We’ll still be celebrating here at the RMSC no matter what!
Are glasses included with my ticket?
No, solar viewing glasses are not included in admission. Glasses are available for purchase at all three locations of the RMSC for $2.50 each and online here.
We suggest buying your glasses as soon as possible to avoid lines the week of the eclipse.
Where do I park?
Due to a high volume of visitors, the majority of our parking lots will be used as viewing areas for the total solar eclipse.
We recommend parking at one of two garages:
East End Garage (475 E Main St., Rochester, NY 14604) or South Ave Garage (39 Stone St., Rocheseter, NY 14604)
You can take a shuttle from these lots to the RMSC. The shuttles are free, but garage fees will still apply.
Where is ada parking?
We will have a lot off of Goodman St. for ADA parking. Map coming soon!
How do the shuttles work?
Visitors will be able to park at the East End & South Ave garages and shuttle in a continuous loop between the RMSC, George Eastman Museum, The Strong National Museum of Play, and the Memorial Art Gallery on Saturday and Sunday with an additional stop at the City of Rochester Public Market on Monday. When boarding the shuttle, no fee will be required (parking garage fees will still apply).
First Student Shuttling Schedule
April 6: 9am–6pm (Last pick up cycle 5:30pm)
April 7: 9am–6pm (Last pick up cycle 5:30pm)
April 8: 8:30am–6:30pm (Last pick up cycle 6:00pm)
Do you have hotel packages for the week of the eclipse?
We don’t organize them ourselves, but we recommend checking out our friends at Visit Rochester online for more information on the hotels in the region.
are there lockers that i can use?
Yes, lockers will be available first come, first serve for purchase during the festival. Visit the Welcome Desk in the Museum & Science Center to rent one.
Do I need my ticket with me?
You do not need a physical ticket. Your confirmation email with your order number will be sufficient.
what does a 3-day pass get me?
Access to all activities and shows (first come, first served) at the RMSC Museum & Science Center and Strasenburgh Planetarium.
Where/when do I get my wristbands?
You’ll pick up your wristbands on the day of at the Museum & Science Center Welcome Desk.
Please have your confirmation email ready (including your order number) to share with RMSC team members.
What can or can’t I bring onto the grounds?
Allowed
- Small folding chairs are permitted outdoors
- Picnic blankets
- Cameras
- Tripods, in designated outdoor areas only
not permitted
- Smoking or vaping is not permitted on the RMSC campus
- Alcohol is not permitted
For the safety of our guests bags may be searched.
Can I photograph/film on the grounds?
Yes, you may. Please note that onsite parking is extremely limited save for handicap and press access, so if you are bringing a tripod or other equipment to document this event, you will have to bring it with you on the shuttle.
If you are bringing a tripod or larger equipment, we ask that you set up in a designated outdoor area for safety reasons. Tripods will not be permitted indoors.
Do children under a certain age get in free?
Children under 3 are free and do not need a ticket. Paid student tickets are for ages 3-18.
emergencies/first aid?
The front desk in the Museum & Science Center, the box office in the Planetarium, and the info desk at the Eisenhart Auditorium will have a first aid kit available for our visitors. There will also be an Ambulance on site for any emergency needs.
Look for staff in navy shirts if you need assistance finding first aid.
What kind of food/drinks will be available?
Food trucks will be on site.
Vending machines with snacks and drinks are also available in the café.
café menu
Salads
- Garden Salad
- Garden Salad with Chicken
plates
- Cheese and cracker plate
- Veggie plate (with ranch and hummus)
- Fruit plate
snacks & sides
- Popcorn
- Pretzels
- Fries
- Mozzarella Sticks
wraps
- Veggie Wrap
- Chicken Caesar Wrap
sandwiches/burgers/entrees
- Grilled Cheese
- Grilled Chicken Sandwich
- Hotdog
- Cheeseburger
- Burger
- Boneless Wings
pizza
- Whole pizza
- Pizza by the slice
sweets
- Novelty Ice Cream
- Cookie
is there somewhere I can charge my phone?
Yes! Recharge with the sun at GreenSpark Solar’s mobile solar-powered charging station! Limited space available.
We recommend bringing a portable charger if possible. Large crowds may impact cell service.
Are there atms on site?
There is an ATM in the Galaxy Café on the ground floor of the Museum & Science Center building and an additional ATM located in Eisenhart Auditorium.
ARe refunds available?
No refunds are available for festival admissions. If you have questions, please contact info@rmsc.org
How do I know when to take my glasses off?
Join us outside at the L3Harris Stage at 2:20pm. We’ll be announcing when the eclipse starts, when totality begins, and when it ends!
If someone purchases a ticket for one day mistakenly, can they transfer to another day?
Yes! You can contact our Guest Services team at info@rmsc.org or 585.271.4320.
What time is the eclipse?
Monday, April 8th, 2024
2:07pm: The moon will start to cover the sun
3:20pm: Totality will occur when the moon covers the sun completely at this time! It will last 3 minutes and 38 seconds if you’re here at the RMSC. Length will vary depending on where you stand.
4:33pm: Moon no longer covers the sun
Is the Eisenhart Auditorium free to enter?
The Eisenhart Building & Auditorium will be free and open to the public during the festival.
I have a press inquiry
Please check out our resources below! If these do not answer any questions you may have, or if you wish to be added to the press list for April 8, please reach out to lcompitello@rmsc.org and ksandoval@rmsc.org.