Solar Eclipse Wows Milpitas Viewers (Photos)

MILPITAS, CA — Hundreds of people turned out Monday to watch the solar eclipse at the Milpitas Library Watch Party. So many that the library ran out of viewing glasses and parking spaces. By 9 a.m., more than an hour before the eclipse peaked, visitors were being directed to the parking garage across the street.

The atmosphere was festive as people gazed at the sky in awe. Generous holders of glasses shared them with latecomers so that everyone could get a glimpse of what could be, for some, a once-in-a-lifetime experience.

They also shared an array of devices to designed to enhance the experience. Some brought equipment.

While others had homemade contraptions.

From babes in arms to seniors with silver hair, people gathered on the top floor of the garage to view the spectacle.

Almost as interesting as viewing the sky was watching the people.

A popular past time early in the eclipse was playing with colanders which cast tiny eclipses in patterns.

But as the peak approached, the expressions of awe became more pronounced.

More than one person staring into the sky mouthed the word, "Wow!" For some it appeared to be almost a life changing experience.

David and Anna Windsor said they loved the festive atmosphere of the event. They prepared for the eclipse by attending astronomer Andrew Fraknoi's lecture at the library.

While 9-year-old Savannah Wong stared at the sky for long stretches and spoke knowledgeably in astronomical terms.

With so many young eyes cast upon the sky, a new generation of scientists may have just experienced a life-changing, ah-ha moment that guides future career choices.

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-All photos by Bea Karnes

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