Transit of Mercury
Come view a rare planetary transit of Mercury as it crosses between the Sun and the Earth!
Every so often, a planet lines up in a way that blocks part of the Sun’s rays from reaching Earth. This event is called a transit. The only two planets that can be seen transiting the Sun from Earth are Venus and Mercury because they are the only planets that orbit inside Earth’s orbit.
Bell staff will have telescopes equipped with solar filters for safe Sun viewing, and Mercury will be seen as a small dot moving across the Sun throughout the morning. The next transit of Mercury visible from Minnesota will be in 2049, so don’t miss this one! This event is part of the Bell’s Statewide Star Party.
Meet on the East side of the Bell Museum’s building, near Cleveland Avenue. Remember to dress for the weather—it might be chilly!
Please note, this event will be canceled in the case of cloudy weather.
Never look directly at the Sun without proper eye protection.
Transit starts before sunrise.
Sunrise = 7:07 am
Transit midway point = 9:20 am
Transit ends = 12:02 pm
Advance registration required. Click here to sign up online today!
Minnesota’s Astronomy Classroom is generously supported by Ruth and John Huss. Note: Museum galleries are not open during this event.