Entry #6, Totality

Image Source: BBC Sky at Night

Mark your calendars and set your alarms because the stage is about to be set for one of nature's most breathtaking events -- a solar eclipse. On April 8th, people living in Mexico, United States, and Canada will have the opportunity of a lifetime to witness totality. What makes this phenomenon so special, and how can you safely enjoy the show?

A solar eclipse occurs when the moon passes between the sun and Earth at just the right trajectory, blocking all or part of the sun's light. There are three main types of solar eclipses: total, partial, and annular. During a total eclipse, the moon completely covers the sun, revealing the sun's outer atmosphere called the corona, and creating a sense of night time for several minutes. On the other hand, a partial eclipse is when only a portion of the sun is covered by the moon, generally dependent on the viewing location. Annular eclipses occur when the moon is too far from Earth to cover the light from the sun entirely, but still visibly in the center of the sun. This upcoming event will be either a total or partial, depending on where you are viewing from.


Image Source: OpenSnow

For those who are eager to witness the eclipse in its full glory, the path of totality is where you'll want to be. During a total solar eclipse, the path of totality is the narrow strip on Earth's surface where the moon will be in position to block the sun entirely. This one will pass through Central Mexico, up through Texas, across the Midwestern US, up through the Northeastern States, and finishing up around Quebec.  If you find yourself in this path, consider yourself exceptionally fortunate. Otherwise, don't count yourself out just yet. As a Phoenix resident, I will get about 64% totality, which is still pretty neat, but I intend to practice safe observing when it happens.

Do not look directly at the sun!

Donal Trump looking directly at the sun, Image Credit: NBC News

While witnessing a solar eclipse is undoubtedly a rare and extraordinary experience, it is crucial to prioritize eye safety. Staring directly at the sun, even during a total solar eclipse, can cause permanent eye damage, or even blindness. Fortunately there are several safe methods for observing an eclipse:

  • Solar eclipse glasses - Invest in a set of eclipse glasses that meet the ISO 12312-2 safety standard. These specialized glasses filter out harmful ultraviolet, visible, and infrared radiation, allowing you to view the eclipse safely.
  • Pinhole projector - Either create your own by poking a hole in a piece of cardboard or use a colander to project the light from the sun onto another surface. You'll be able to see a projected image of the eclipse without looking directly at it.
  • Livestreams - If you are unable to witness the eclipse in person, or are too far outside of the path of totality, many observatories and YouTubers will be life broadcasting the event, so you can safely view from the comfort of your home.
Image Source: Reddit


As the anticipation builds for the upcoming solar eclipse, remember to plan ahead, prioritize safety, and embrace this opportunity to witness one of nature's most captivating events. Whether you are within the path of totality or observing from afar, the solar eclipse is sure to be a spectacularly humbling experience. The next total eclipse isn't expected for another 20 years! So mark your calendars, grab some viewing equipment, and enjoy the show on April 8th.

Comments

  1. Prof. MurphyMarch 28, 2024 at 1:57 PM

    Ha! I asked about the eclipse in my comment to Entry #4.

    ReplyDelete

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