SpaceX reserves Lerma parador for total solar eclipse

SpaceX, the aerospace company founded by Elon Musk, has reserved the entire Parador de Lerma in Burgos, Spain, for a private event coinciding with the total solar eclipse on August 12. The historic 17th-century palace, where Napoleon once slept, is closed to the public, hosting around 140 specialists for the occasion Source: El Español. The reservation was made about 18 months in advance, underscoring the company's interest in the astronomical phenomenon Source: El Español.

The Musk question

Speculation about whether Musk himself would attend has gripped the town, but reports indicate he is not present. COPE has confirmed that Musk is not in Lerma, and the guests are technicians and eclipse enthusiasts, with no celebrities among them Source: Euronews. However, his possible arrival had fueled excitement, and the mayor of Burgos publicly invited him to visit Atapuerca Source: La Vanguardia.

Local impact

The eclipse has drawn visitors to the region, filling hotels and bringing an economic boost to small towns along the path of totality Source: Euronews. While some residents are disappointed by the parador's closure, the event has placed Lerma in the spotlight Source: El Español.

Historical setting

The Parador de Lerma, a former ducal palace with four towers and over 200 balconies, is a landmark of Spanish heritage Source: El Confidencial. Its selection for the SpaceX event highlights the region's appeal for observing the eclipse, which is also attracting NASA scientists to nearby Villalibado Source: El Confidencial.