Petrified Forest National Park and the Annular Eclipse May 2012

Date: May 5, 2012
Contact: Hallie Larsen, 928-524-6228 x274

 Petrified Forest, AZ- The national parks are the place to be on May 20, 2012, to see the first solar eclipse in the United States in 18 years. Petrified Forest National Park is within the pathway of the eclipse, making it a perfect spot to watch this remarkable event. The eclipse begins over the Pacific Ocean and, from south of the Aleutian Islands, travels to the California coast. From there, traveling at 1,000 mph, the shadow of the eclipse races south and east over 30 national parks in California, Nevada, Arizona, Utah, and New Mexico, and even into west Texas before sunset.

Petrified Forest National Park is hosting an eclipse event on May 20, starting with first contact at 5:27 pm and ending when the park closes at 7:30 pm. Peak will be at 6:36 pm. We will have special glasses to watch the eclipse safety as well as pinhole boxes to cast the image of the sun. There is plenty of parking at Kachina Point as well as restrooms. The point itself is surrounded by the beautiful Painted Desert. While the event is free, the park entrance fee will apply.

For information call [phone]; or write to the Superintendent, Petrified Forest National Park, P.O. Box 2217, Petrified Forest, AZ 86028; or e-mail the park Superintendent.