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Approximately 3,000 individuals gathered at the Fort Worth Botanic Garden to witness the total solar eclipse on Monday afternoon, coming from various parts of the United States and even from foreign countries.
Alan Loving, who traveled from Oakland, California, viewed the eclipse as a rare opportunity, anticipating another total eclipse not occurring for another two decades in the region.
Jeanne Quarto, a retired earth science teacher from Brooklyn, New York, was equally enthusiastic, prompting her family to join her for the event, which included exploring Fort Worth’s attractions like the Stockyards and the Cowgirl Museum.
Richard Klaess, Quarto’s brother residing in Fort Worth, noted the significance of experiencing the eclipse in totality, recalling a childhood memory from the 1960s but expressing excitement for a complete view this time.
Michelle Acoba made a spontaneous trip from Alaska for her birthday, securing the last available flight to Fort Worth and arriving early in the morning.
Martyn Wood, visiting from the United Kingdom, eagerly anticipated his second total eclipse experience, describing the phenomenon as awe-inspiring and memorable.
Spectators gathered throughout the Botanic Garden, where NASA monitored nature’s reactions to the eclipse through various devices placed around the property.
Patrick Newman, CEO of the Botanic Garden, explained efforts to record nature’s sounds during the eclipse, observing potential changes in animal behavior as sunlight diminished.
Additionally, the facility collaborated with Lighthouse for the Blind to facilitate an eclipse experience for visually impaired individuals using a device that converted light into sound.
As the eclipse unfolded, cheers and applause resonated from the crowd, marking a momentous occasion for all present, including 9-year-old Alex Crispin, who found the experience remarkable and unique.
Brian Tam, visiting from England, described the eclipse as life-changing, coinciding with his birthday and making the journey to Fort Worth worthwhile.