Visible Eclipses through Clouds — a Challenge of Outreach Messaging

Clouds are not something you usually want during any kind of solar eclipse. But in the case of the October 14th, 2023, annular eclipse, viewed from Uvalde, Texas, the dramatic appearance of mid-thickness clouds actually enhanced the event by providing incredible photograph opportunities. In this article, we discuss the experience of the U.S. National Science Foundation's National Solar Observatory outreach trip to Uvalde, viewing the eclipse and interacting with crowds beneath partially cloudy skies. We also highlight the need for future safety studies and clear messaging regarding the observation of eclipses under mid-thickness clouds (where solar viewing glasses become redundant).