How to Safely Watch the 2023 Solar Eclipse in the U.S.
On October 14, 2023, an annular solar eclipse will pass over the United States, providing millions of Americans with the opportunity to witness this celestial phenomenon. While only a handful of cities will experience the “ring of fire” effect when the moon aligns perfectly with the sun, leaving only the burning rim visible, many areas in the country will still be able to enjoy a partial view of the eclipse.
To ensure a safe and memorable viewing experience, it is crucial to follow proper precautions. Here are some essential tips for watching the solar eclipse:
1. Use proper eye protection: Never look directly at the sun during an eclipse without appropriate eye protection. Regular sunglasses are not sufficient to shield your eyes from the sun’s harmful rays. Instead, use eclipse glasses that comply with the ISO 12312-2 international standard. These specialized glasses are thousands of times darker than normal sunglasses and provide the necessary protection.
2. Beware of camera lenses and other optical devices: Do not attempt to view the eclipse directly through a camera lens, binoculars, or a telescope without a special-purpose solar filter. Looking at the sun through these devices without proper protection can cause severe eye injury. Ensure that you secure a solar filter designed for your specific equipment before attempting to observe the eclipse.
3. Explore indirect viewing methods: If you don’t have access to eclipse glasses or specialized equipment, there are alternative ways to safely view the eclipse. One method involves creating an eclipse projector using an index card. Simply punch a small hole in the card and use it to project an image of the sun onto a nearby surface. Avoid looking directly through the hole at the sun.
4. Protect your skin: While enjoying the eclipse, remember to apply sunscreen and wear protective clothing to shield your skin from the sun’s rays. The sun may still be quite bright during the eclipse, and prolonged exposure can lead to sunburn and other skin damage. Don’t forget to take the necessary precautions to keep your skin safe.
The path of annularity, where the “ring of fire” effect will be visible, stretches across several states, including California, Nevada, Oregon, Arizona, Utah, Wyoming, Colorado, New Mexico, Oklahoma, Texas, and Idaho. However, even if you are located outside this path, you can still witness a partial view of the eclipse.
The annular eclipse will begin in Oregon at 9:13 a.m. PDT and end in Texas at 12:03 p.m. CDT. The partial eclipse will have varying start and end times depending on your location. For instance, in Eugene, Oregon, the partial eclipse will begin at 8:06 a.m. PDT, with annularity starting at 9:16 a.m. PDT and reaching its maximum two minutes later. The partial eclipse in Eugene will conclude at 10:39 a.m. PDT.
Remember, safety should be your top priority when observing the solar eclipse. Take the necessary precautions to protect your eyes and skin from the sun’s harmful rays. Enjoy this rare celestial event and marvel at the wonders of our universe.
By Elizabeth Chapman, Personal Injury Blogger
