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The solar eclipse totality was a dazzling first taste of Texas for many eager spectators who gathered at LBJ National Historic Park west of Austin. The anticipation was high as traffic control signs urged attendees to “arrive early, stay late” for the celestial event.

NASA and the Park Service had set up white tents on an old tarmac, with park rangers and scientists on hand to provide information, solar glasses, and answer any questions about the eclipse. Despite some cloudy weather that forced some solar trackers to find alternative viewing locations, the experience for many was still nothing short of fabulous.

As the partially cloudy sky darkened to a deep twilight, onlookers were captivated by the phenomenon nearly as much as the sight of the dark disc ringed by solar flares. Texas, known for its vast landscapes and diverse population, has its fair share of eclipse enthusiasts. One Texas school district even allowed parents to “opt-out” their children from witnessing the eclipse, resulting in a small group of students staying indoors while their classmates experienced the event outside.

The beauty of Texas was also on full display in April, with highways lined with lush blue bonnet lupine and Coreopsis linifolia wildflowers. Lady Bird Johnson, a Texan and former U.S. First Lady, was credited with establishing the freeway wildflower program in 1985, showcasing her early environmentalist efforts.

Despite a global decline in insect biomass, the abundance of bugs on windshields during road trips in Texas suggests a possible resurgence in the southwest. Cycling enthusiasts enjoyed the flat and hot bike paths across the state, spotting unique wildlife like pyrrhuloxia and road runners along the way.

Texans have a unique relationship with environmental conservation and fossil fuels, with solar and wind energy supplying 20% of the state’s energy needs. However, the dominance of oil and gas industries in funding various aspects of the state’s economy remains a significant factor.

In Galveston, a barrier island off the coast of Texas, visitors marveled at the diverse wildlife and environmental education efforts along the seawall. Informational benches highlighted the importance of watershed management and the impact of offshore drilling in the Gulf of Mexico on marine life.

Texans take pride in their state, evident in the abundance of state flags flown and the friendly demeanor of residents towards visitors. Despite occasional encounters with less-than-welcoming individuals, overall, travelers found Texans to be courteous and helpful.

As the solar eclipse event came to a close, one band member’s snide remark towards visitors from California served as a reminder of the cultural differences between states. Despite the occasional clash of perspectives, the shared experience of witnessing the solar eclipse in Texas brought people together in awe of the natural world.

Overall, the solar eclipse totality in Texas provided a captivating glimpse into the state’s unique blend of natural beauty, cultural pride, and environmental awareness. For many, it was a memorable introduction to the Lone Star State and a reminder of the wonders that can be found in the world around us.