Solar Eclipse

Explore Safely.

Today, Monday, April 8, 2024, a solar eclipse will appear across Mexico, the United States, and Canada. A solar eclipse occurs when the moon blocks any part of the sun. A path from Texas to Maine will show the the eclipse in totality (where the moon completely blocks out the sun). NASA, the National Aeronautics and Space Administration, offers lots of activities, as well as advice, on the fun and safe ways to enjoy, and view, the solar eclipse. NASA notes, “Looking directly at the Sun without proper eye protection is unsafe EXCEPT during the brief total eclipse phase (‘totality’). This happens ONLY within the narrow path of totality. At all other times, it is safe to look directly at the Sun ONLY through special-purpose solar filters, such as ‘eclipse glasses,’ that comply with the transmittance requirements of the ISO 12312-2 international standard. Ordinary sunglasses, even very dark ones, are not safe for looking at the Sun” (Go here for more tips from NASA on glasses). Below is an image of solar eclipse glasses that meet the ISO 1232-2 safety measures.

You can also make a pinhole viewer, which you can use to see some of the shadows created by the solar eclipse. Below is an image of one crafted out of an empty Cheerios cereal box. Here are some quick directions from NASA on how to make one at your home.

Happy Solar-Eclipse Viewing!