ORANGE PARK – More than 200 students and community members gathered for the Solar Eclipse Watch Party at the St. Johns River College’s Orange Park, Palatka and St. Augustine campuses.

Although Florida was not on the path of totality, enthusiasts hung out on campus to watch the eclipse at its peak, with 63% of the sun eclipsed by the moon. Attendees were treated to activities and cosmic snacks, including SunnyD drinks, Moon Pies, Milky Way candy bars and Starbursts.

SJR State science professor Jill Leggett, who traveled to Round Rock, Texas, to experience the eclipse, shared the photo she took during the eclipse’s peak.

“It is always awe-inspiring to see totality and is be best summed up by: The Heavens declare the glory of God; and the firmament shows His handiwork – Psalms 19:1,” Leggett said.

For Florida attendees, Leggett said witnessing a solar eclipse, even a partial one, can be a breathtaking experience that stays with students for a lifetime.

“It can spark wonder about the universe and our place in it and offers a unique opportunity for immersive, interdisciplinary learning that can foster curiosity, critical thinking, and a deeper understanding of the world around us,” she said.

The SJR State Library provided special-purpose solar filter eclipse glasses from the Solar Eclipse Activities for Libraries program.