Planetariums offer safe view of partial eclipse

People wanting to safely catch a glimpse of the upcoming partial solar eclipse will get their opportunity at events hosted by two Illinois planetariums.

The Adler Planetarium in Chicago says the partial eclipse will begin at 4:36 p.m. on Thursday. The peak - when the moon will cover half of the sun - will occur at 5:43 p.m. The eclipse will end at sunset, or approximately 6 p.m.

If the weather permits, the planetarium will offer free to the public safe viewing through telescopes with solar filters.

The Illinois State University Planetarium in Normal also will hold a viewing session and free program. The event will include a presentation about eclipses under the planetarium dome.

Staring directly at the eclipse without the proper protection can harm a person's eyes.