Illinois Prepares for Solar Eclipse Aug. 21

On Monday, Aug. 21, residents and visitors across Illinois will be treated to a rare celestial event – a solar eclipse. While everyone in the contiguous U.S. will be able to see at least a partial eclipse, weather permitting, those in a 70-mile wide path across 14 states (including southern Illinois) will see a total eclipse, in which the moon will completely block the sun for up to 2 minutes and 44 seconds. In fact, the point of greatest duration for the eclipse will be a point in the Shawnee National Forest.

Excitement about the eclipse has been building across the nation for many months. Numerous events are planned in southern Illinois to mark the total solar eclipse. More than 100,000 people are expected to visit the path of totality in the region during the days leading up to the event and, of course, on the day of the eclipse.

State and local agencies have been working together for nearly a year on plans to ensure everyone can safely enjoy this exciting event. This page connects you to information to help you safely enjoy the solar eclipse and make memories to last a lifetime.

Solar Eclipse Path of Totality

• Illinois Department of Public Health

  Health and safety tips for the eclipse

• Illinois Department of Transportation

  Travel safety webpage
  IDOT Eclipse Preparation

• Illinois Department of Agriculture

  Camping and entertainment information

• Illinois Department of Natural Resources

  Campsite reservations webpage

• NASA

  Eclipse information website

• VOX

  Eclipse information website​

• ​08/16/17 - State, Local Agencies Coordinate to Ensure Public Safety Before, During, After Eclipse​