Thousands view annular eclipse

by Bill Boyle
San Juan Record Editor
Thousands of visitors and local residents alike enjoyed the annular solar eclipse that occurred across the San Juan County sky on October 14. The “ring of fire” eclipse was viewable from most areas of the county, with the most significant impact on a swath near Mexican Hat and Bluff.
A “Ring of Fire” viewing party was held at Goosenecks State Park and NASA was broadcasting live reports from Valley of the Gods.
Approximately 100 cars stopped along the top of the Moki Dugway for one of the most spectacular views of the sky and landscape.
Allison Yamamoto-Sparks, of San Juan County Visitor Services, said the Goosenecks event was attended by about 500 people, with visitors from near and far, including Canada, Italy, Germany, Belgium, Netherlands, and United Kingdom.
“It turned out to be a great day for those who were at the Goosenecks,” said Rob Adams. “I would give all those who took part in organizing and executing it an A+.”
The Town of Bluff and a San Juan County mobile emergency response center at Sand Island said there were few reported challenges. Local government entities spent significant efforts to prepare for any challenges presented by the influx of thousands of visitors.
It is the only total or annular eclipse to pass directly over San Juan County since records are available dating back to 1900. The next large eclipse near San Juan County is in 2045.