The Little League World Series, the most heartwarming competition in sports, kicks off next week in Williamsport, Pa. It runs from August 17-27, which, as astute observers of solar phenomena will note, covers the forthcoming total solar eclipse will darken American skies on August 21.
Pennsylvania is not within the swath of land that will have the sun completely blotted out, there will be a partial eclipse from 1:14 p.m. to 3:56 p.m., and at peak the moon will block out between 75 and 80 percent of the sun. As PennLive reported, the stadium will simply turn its lights on when the eclipse starts so play never has to stop. Additionally, organizers will pass out a bunch of glasses that will make it safe to check out the eclipse action:
Approximately 30,000 AAO-certified solar eclipse safe-viewing glasses designed by Visionworks especially for Little League will be distributed to those entering the complex, said Little League spokesman Kevin Fountain.
If you’re lucky enough to live in the path of the total solar eclipse, peak darkness will last a bit longer than a minute (more if you live in Scottsbluff, Neb). Total solar eclipses are relatively rare occurrences, although there will be another one in 2024 that will pass over Pennsylvania more directly. Thankfully, that one will be in April and won’t force anyone to wear special little league goggles.