By: Avry Zow

Astronomy Club interest poster; Courtesy: Avry Zow

The solar eclipse happened today, but on the campus of Montevallo the clouds covered it for the most part. Thus, leaving the astronomy club to shine the brightest. 

The solar eclipse may be a phenomenon that we rarely see, however, for the president of the astronomy club, Samantha Cost, her love of space is here to stay. 

“I’ve always loved space ever since I was a little kid. At one point I thought I was going to be an astronaut. My career plans have changed a little bit, but my love for space has not, so now I’m the president of the astronomy club. I just work to make space enjoyable for all,” said Cost.

The astronomy club’s efforts to provide this opportunity for the community and students to witness the event has not gone unnoticed. Senior Zauren Burton shares how their efforts are something that people may not see from other organizations or on other college campuses.

I just work to make space enjoyable for all

– Samantha Cost

“I think that it’s really cool. I don’t think a lot of people do that and I think that it’ll give people a chance to come out and see something that some people haven’t seen before,” said Burton.

Student sign up area for Astronomy Club/ pick up are for Eclipse glasses for event; Courtesy: Avry Zow

The turnout for the event was at a level that even Cost didn’t expect.

“It feels really inspiring. I’m going to be honest, I didn’t think this many people cared about the eclipse, outer space and were free in the middle of the day. So I’m really excited to see all of the community come out and learn more about the eclipse and astronomy club cause it is a rare event,” said Cost. 

Students gather for a photo to commemorate the Solar Eclipse on campus; Courtesy: Bruce Finklea

Astronomy member, Hannah Carilisle, shared similar sentiments as the crowd gave her a surprise, but enjoyed knowing so many people were interested in the solar eclipse.

“We don’t usually get many events cause we’re so strictly off campus at the observatory. So one of these type of events is really exciting cause I’ve never seen this many people before and we’re still kinda a small club. So honestly, very excited. I’m very happy that it’s going well and everyone’s super interested in the solar eclipse,” said Carilisle.

Astronomy club offered students a glimpse through their telescope to catch the eclipse; Courtesy: Avry Zow

The next solar eclipse will not be for another 20 years. However, for students that are still interested in what lies in the stars. The astronomy club meets up every other Wednesday at the James Wylie Shepherd Observatory.