Hi there, Glen!
Welcome back to planDisney! Your question is out-of-this-world and I think it's one of my favorites that I've ever had. As an engineer and a huge space fan, I love that you're planning to make this event part of your day in the parks!
Historically, eclipse glasses have not been available at the
Disneyland Resort during solar events. I double-checked with a Cast Member this morning, and Paula Ann said they have not been advised if glasses will be available. Just to be safe, I absolutely suggest purchasing and bringing your own. The cardboard ones are really portable and inexpensive, and the idea of styling them yourself is totally inspired! I can just imagine adding some Mickey or Minnie ears, a princess tiara, or even just some Disney stickers to make your glasses a magical accessory. You should totally go for it!
Checking with NASA, it looks like you'll be able to see about a 70% eclipse at Disneyland Park. The nice thing about this particular eclipse is that the time window in Anaheim is fairly wide. My research shows that the eclipse will start in Anaheim at 8:08 AM with the maximum taking place at 9:25 AM and tapering off until 10:50 AM. I tend to get caught up at Disneyland Park and lose track of time, so you might want to set an alarm or two!
As far as observing the eclipse, there are a couple of different spots you could try that are out of the way and would allow you to stand and watch safely:
- Along the edge of the Rivers of America in Frontierland, perhaps even while you ride the Mark Twain Riverboat!
- The area in front of "it's a small world" has lots of snack options and some open space.
- One of the paths to the side of Sleeping Beauty Castle; I'd recommend the one on the Fantasy Faire side.
- Galaxy's Edge in the open area outside of Ronto Roasters. Don't forget to grab a Ronto Morning Wrap!
Did you know that Walt Disney was also fascinated with space? You might have guessed since Disneyland Park includes Tomorrowland! Back in the 1950's Walt teamed with Wernher von Braun, known as the father of the V-2 rocket, to create television specials in support of the American space program. The first one was called "Man in Space" and was viewed by 42 million people in 1955! Walt's influence played heavily in bringing the space program into mainstream culture; he even has an asteroid named after him!
I love that his spirit of innovation, problem-solving, and exploration lives on in Disney Parks around the world.
Glen, it's about time for me to fly away! I hope you'll be able to enjoy the eclipse during your day at the park. If you have any other questions you're welcome to
send me a transmission and I'll be happy to help!
Keep moving forward!
Amanda