By Matt Ruddick, AMA Creative director
IN AUGUST 2017, many throughout the contiguous US were treated to an event that hadn’t been seen in the lower 48 states since February 1979: a total solar eclipse. The path of totality stretched from the Oregon coast, through the Great Plains, and out to the Atlantic Ocean, giving sky watchers an experience unlike any other.
Although many across the country were able to enjoy a partial solar eclipse, the path of totality that stretched across the country was only 100 miles wide, forcing many to travel great distances to experience the magic and wonder of totality.
Fast-forward to April 8, 2024, and sky watchers are preparing for their second chance in only 7 years to experience that magic and wonder again. This time, AMA is joining in on the excitement! Muncie, Indiana, home to AMA’s International Aeromodeling Center (IAC), lies directly in the path of totality for the 2024 total solar eclipse.
Because of AMA’s experience in hosting large events and having vast areas with a virtually unobstructed view of the sky, we are partnering with the City of Muncie, as well as other community leaders, for the Muncie Eclipse celebration as one of the primary viewing locations. Although many of the details of the weekend-long event are still being solidified, the IAC is primed and ready to host sky watchers from around the world as they experience one of nature’s most unique and extraordinary events.
On a larger scale, this event is sure to provide an economic benefit to the surrounding community. For the AMA however, this event will also serve to introduce aeromodeling to a community of people who might be wholly unfamiliar with the hobby. Flight demonstrations, simulators, and on-location experts are all possible ways that AMA can share our love of aeromodeling with visitors, in addition to enjoying the history of the hobby by visiting the National Model Aviation Museum. Admission and camping details are still being finalized and will be announced soon.
It won’t be until 2045 that the US will experience another total solar eclipse, and even longer (2099) before another one makes it near the IAC. AMA is excited to partner with the City of Muncie and other stakeholders in welcoming the world to our community and our home to enjoy this truly awesome experience.
If you’d like to stay up-to-date with information about the event, please visit www.eclipsemuncie.com or www.facebook.com/eclipsemuncie.
Is anything planned for eclipse arrivals at Reese airport (7I2)? Airplane parking/no parking? Shuttle to IAC, camping areas?
At this time there are no plans with Reese in coordination with the eclipse. All our plans have been focused on the IAC.