Summary:
- The 2023 Balloon Fiesta will coincide with a partial solar eclipse, creating a rare and exciting event.
- The annular solar eclipse will be visible on October 14th, a little after nine in the morning.
- Special events are planned, including a balloon glow with over 70 hot air balloons and educational opportunities.
- NASA will provide 80,000 solar sunglasses for safe eclipse viewing and educational activities.
- The convergence of the Balloon Fiesta and the annular solar eclipse promises a unique and unforgettable experience.
Come balloon fiesta time, guess will get the chance to see not only balloons fill up the sky, but a partial solar eclipse. It's being called an event of a lifetime. New 13's Alexis Ganeski has a look at the special events happening around it.
Magical Time in Albuquerque
The most magical time of year in Albuquerque is quickly approaching, and while the International Balloon Fiesta is always special, this year will be one for the books. "We're excited to be the place where the world comes for ballooning and especially in 2023 on our second Saturday," says a spokesperson for the fiesta.Rare Celestial Sighting
On Saturday, October 14th, a little after nine in the morning, the annular solar eclipse will be visible in the sky. This is something the Balloon Fiesta team has eagerly anticipated for the past few years. The ring of fire, a rare sighting when the moon does not fully cover the sun, will be visible right from the field of Balloon Fiesta Park.Planned Special Events
With the eclipse happening overhead, a variety of special events are planned on the field. A balloon glow featuring more than 70 hot air balloons will take place, a spectacle usually reserved for nighttime during the fiesta. Tom Garity, a spokesperson for Balloon Fiesta, states, "It's going to be so unique because with the annular eclipse, we'll have totality for about four minutes and 30 seconds, and during that time, it's not going to get pitch black, but it'll be somewhat very similar to the kind of conditions that we have for balloon glow in the evenings."Opportunity and Uniqueness
The Balloon Fiesta is a standout event on its own, but the added opportunity of witnessing an eclipse makes it truly special. Alexis Ganeski reports, "We'd like to think that the Balloon Fiesta can definitely stand on its own, but the opportunity to also have an eclipse taking place, that's what makes it special."NASA's Involvement
In addition to the exciting events, NASA will also play a role in the festivities. The space agency will be giving away 80,000 solar sunglasses to allow guests to safely observe the eclipse. NASA will also provide educational opportunities to learn more about the annual solar eclipse.The convergence of the Balloon Fiesta and the annular solar eclipse promises a unique and unforgettable experience for attendees. With a blend of celestial wonder and ballooning excitement, October 14th is set to be a day of extraordinary sights and memories.