The first full eclipse since 1979 created a huge buzz among sky-gazers across the country, and more than 2,000 people gathered at College of San Mateo to view the eclipse on August 21st.

CSM’s successful celebration took place in the Plaza of the Sun in front of the planetarium. Over 1,500 pairs of safe-viewing glasses were handed out to the excited participants. Fortunately, the fog stayed north of the campus and the viewing was ideal. Many celebrants were able to view the eclipse through specially-equipped telescopes or sun-spotters that were provided by the Astronomy Department. Darryl Stanford, CSM professor of astronomy, and one of the event’s hosts, helped promote the celebration on social media, which included an insightful and informative Facebook interview.