Unfortunately, the VIP sign-up and waitlist are SOLD OUT. Those who have successfully registered will be contacted via email. Please visit Goreville Public Viewing for more information on non-VIP viewing.
Join us in Goreville, Illinois, for a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to experience a rare total solar eclipse with the University of Illinois’ astronomy professors. Spend time with our astronomers, hear a talk from the Department of Astronomy, view the eclipse through our telescopes, and get a pair of glasses for safe viewing.
The program will begin at 11:30 a.m. Monday, Aug. 21, 2017 in Goreville, Illinois.
Bus Trip with VIP event – RECOMMENDED!
Avoid the traffic and ride in comfort in an air-conditioned coach that will take you directly to Illinois’ VIP site. We’ll provide continental breakfast, snacks, and water, and the bus will offer:
Board the bus at 6 a.m. at the State Farm Center on campus. We’ll return at approximately 6:30 p.m.
Once we arrive in Goreville, you’ll join our VIP experience with a special presentation created just for alumni by astronomy professor Leslie Looney. We’ll have eclipse glasses for you, and you’ll view the solar eclipse in the Illinois VIP zone with professor Bryan Dunne. He’ll be showcasing various stages of the eclipse from first contact to last contact through telescopes. You’ll have time to experience Goreville’s Eclipse Fair and more.
Registration fee is $45 per person. An optional lunch is $10 per person.
Free parking will be available on campus.
Need to stay overnight on Sunday, Aug. 20? We’ve reserved hotel blocks at a discounted rate at these hotels:
Hilton Garden InnGet yourself to Goreville for our VIP event:
Drive yourself to Goreville to attend our event. You’ll park and take a shuttle into town (please note, the city will charge a fee for parking). You’ll join our VIP experience with a special presentation created just for alumni by astronomy professor Leslie Looney. We’ll have eclipse glasses for you, and you’ll view the solar eclipse in the Illinois VIP zone with professor Bryan Dunne. He’ll be showcasing various stages of the eclipse from first contact to last contact through telescopes. You’ll have time to experience Goreville’s Eclipse Fair and more.
Registration fee is $25 per person. An optional lunch is $10 per person.
For more information
Please email the LAS Alumni Relations office or call (217) 333-3387.
We are proud to provide this unique opportunity but cannot guarantee perfect viewing weather and unforeseen traffic complications.