HISD students witness solar eclipse with guidance from NASA

Students in the Houston Independent School District (HISD) had the unique opportunity to witness a solar eclipse on April 8, 2024, thanks to the collaboration between NASA and Space Center Houston. Astronaut and Space Center Houston Chief Science Officer Megan MacArthur visited several schools to deliver "eclipse in a box" kits, allowing students to safely observe the celestial event.

Anderson Elementary Principal Erica Tran expressed her excitement about the event, stating, “The kids were able to ask a lot of questions and prepare themselves for what an eclipse really is, and they were excited about it. I think [things like this] open up their interests to astronomy and gets them excited about science and space. Astronaut MacArthur coming out was eye-opening for the girls in particular, seeing that there was a lady astronaut, that she’s real. It opens their minds more than seeing the same thing every day.”

MacArthur, who designed the kits, emphasized the importance of practical exposure to inspire students and deepen their interest in space science. She stated, “This is a unique opportunity to really understand something that happens on such a large scale that it can be hard to picture. This is a way to help them realize their place in the solar system and the universe.”

Despite cloudy weather, HISD students were able to witness the eclipse using the special glasses provided in the kits. Anderson Elementary fourth grader Isayah Figuroa shared his excitement, saying, “This eclipse is special because it’s going to be a total eclipse. The next one isn’t going to happen for 20 years!”

The collaboration between HISD and NASA aims to ignite students’ passion for STEM and space science, with NASA engaging in various projects and initiatives throughout the year. The eclipse viewing experience served as another unforgettable moment for HISD students to connect with the wonders of the universe.