Video: Franklin Institute chief astronomer answers your eclipse questions
Derrick Pitts answers questions from readers about the solar eclipse in a Q&A on Philly.com's Facebook page.
The eclipse is past its peak in Philadelphia, but if you're still looking for information about what happened, Derrick Pitts has answers.
The Franklin Institute's chief astronomer discussed Monday's eclipse in a live Q&A on Philly.com's Facebook page.
He discussed heavy cloud cover, animal reactions, the difference between lunar and solar eclipses, why the sky still appeared so bright, dangers of looking at the sun and other topics.
Pitts answered questions from Missouri, where he was viewing the phenomenon in the path of totality. Philadelphia had just a partial eclipse, with about 75 percent coverage.
Around Philadelphia, crowds flocked to the Franklin Institute and other locations for parties and views of the eclipse.
Anticipation for the event was high: Numerous events around the area were scheduled, and special eclipse-viewing glasses were in high demand.
The Philadelphia area last saw a total eclipse in 1478. The next full eclipse here isn't expected until 2079.
Read more about the eclipse:
It's eclipse day: Here's how Philly experienced the big event
At Penn, ancient tablet shows this summer's eclipse mania is nothing new
Franklin Institute's chief astronomer on the total eclipse that has his heart
Eclipses thrilling and of immense scientific value — just ask Einstein
Why total solar eclipses have snubbed Philly – for centuries