In case you missed it, Guelph recently experienced a celestial spectacle that had everyone looking up in wonder. The solar eclipse, described by some as a once-in-a-lifetime event, coincided with the ninth birthday of young Elwyn Shepherd, adding an extra layer of excitement to the day.
Elwyn, reflecting on the eclipse, remarked, “I’ve never experienced an eclipse before except when I was like one.” For him, witnessing Monday’s eclipse was a unique and captivating experience, noting the eerie evening-like atmosphere and the noticeable darkness.
Accompanied by his mother, Carly Wilson, Elwyn celebrated his birthday at the Yorklands Green Hub, joining the Guelph Stargazers event at the former reformatory lands along York Road. Despite initially having around 25 registered participants, the event saw an enthusiastic turnout of about 40 people, eager to witness the celestial phenomenon.
Not far away, Johnston Green at the University of Guelph became a gathering spot for approximately 2,500 eclipse enthusiasts. Attendees sprawled out on blankets, gazing skyward with anticipation. Eclipse glasses were distributed to around 500 attendees, allowing them to safely observe the sun’s partial coverage through telescopes equipped with special filters.
While Guelph wasn’t in the path of totality, experiencing about 99 percent coverage, the excitement and intrigue were palpable. Zhen Ningxu, sharing his thoughts after the eclipse peaked, expressed satisfaction with the viewing location, considering it one of the best spots in the city. Similarly, Derek Vella, a director at the University of Guelph, mentioned his anticipation of observing changes in light and behavior, even though the darkness fell slightly short of expectations.
As the eclipse unfolded, clouds that initially threatened to obscure the view began to dissipate, much to the delight of onlookers. Robin Marshall, noting the clearing skies, remarked on the serendipitous opportunity to witness the eclipse outdoors.
For 11-year-old Kira Mulholland, the eclipse’s impact was palpable even before knowing about the event. She noticed the drop in temperature and the dimming of daylight, prompting a sense of curiosity and awe.
Reflecting on the eclipse, Mulholland humorously likened the sun’s obscured shape to a banana, showcasing the imaginative perspectives that such celestial events inspire.
In moments like these, when the sky puts on a show, it’s a reminder of the wonders of the universe and the joy of sharing these experiences with others. Eclipse mania may have been a brief phenomenon, but its memories will linger as a testament to the curiosity and wonder that unite us all.
