FAYETTEVILLE, Ark. – Anyone who wants to learn more about the upcoming solar eclipse is invited to an informal presentation at 4 p.m. Thursday, Aug. 17 in the Physics Building, Room 133.

Astronomers Dan and Julia Kennefick, associate professors in the physics department, will talk about the history of eclipses and what to expect in Fayetteville. Physics student Brett Bonine with the SPACE Hogs student organization will discuss his group’s plans for the event.

The faculty and students have also set up a Research Guide packed with information about the eclipse.

On Monday, Aug. 21, the first day of classes at the U of A, the moon will begin to cover the sun over Fayetteville at 11:43 a.m., reaching 90.6 percent coverage at 1:13 p.m. The Associated Student Government will hold a free cookout on the Union Mall from 11 a.m. – 2 p.m., and free glasses specially designed for viewing the eclipse will be given out, courtesy of the Pat Walker Health Center and Mertins Eye and Optical. Volunteers will also explain how to make sure you watch the eclipse without damaging your eyes.

The near-total eclipse will only last about two minutes, but the moon will continue to cover part of the sun until 2:41 p.m.