Next week, Europe will experience a rare sunset eclipse, which can be viewed on the big screen during a livestream watch party at the Santa Barbara Museum of Natural History’s Exploratorium (SBMNH).

At 11:29 a.m. (PDT) on Wednesday, Aug. 12, the moon will completely cover the sun for viewers in parts of Northern Europe, just minutes from their local sunset time, SBMNH said.

During the watch party in Fleischmann Auditorium, SBMNH Astronomy Programs staff will provide interpretation and special activities for all ages.

The eclipse totality at 11:29 a.m. will last just 1 minute, 44 seconds, but museum visitors are invited to drop in on the livestream event anytime from 10:30 a.m.-12:30 p.m.

The confluence of a solar eclipse with sunset, which is expected to be particularly stunning, will be projected in a live video feed from a telescope in Villalibado, Spain, right in the path of totality.  

According to the Exploratorium, the combination of eclipse and sunset “is expected to create dramatic atmospheric effects, enhanced sunset colors, and a striking 360-degree twilight surrounding the horizon, making this one of the most visually remarkable total solar eclipses of the century.

“The Exploratorium broadcast will bring stunning, unobstructed views of totality to audiences wherever they are,” museum organizers said.

Ila Jade Komasa, SBMNH Astronomy Programs manager said she is looking forward to the watch party not just as an astronomical phenomenon, but as a social event:

“One of my favorite things about a solar eclipse is how it connects people across the world,” she said. “Whether you are standing in the moon’s shadow, or watching a livestream, we are all sharing the same moment of wonder and discovery.”

The event is included with museum admission (free for members).

Also on on Aug. 12, SBMNH will host regular programming in Gladwin Planetarium, with shows at 11 a.m., noon, and 3. p.m.; and solar viewing at Palmer Observatory, 2-4 p.m., weather permitting.

The museum’s Space Sciences exhibit Our Cosmic Coast is open 10 a.m.-5 p.m.

For more, visit Solar Eclipse Livestream Watch Party.