The most expected total solar eclipse event is just several weeks away. The event which will sweep across the US from coast to coast is projected to occur on August 21, 2017. The event is the greatest event coming after 40 years to give sky-watchers a rare opportunity to see the moon traversing directly on the face of the sun. Scientists are offering various tips on how to safely watch the eclipse without injuring eyes.
Many people are making plans for traveling to the most designated places in preparation to have a glimpse of the huge celestial occurrence. For those who have never experienced the eclipse before, there are several things that one should take into consideration ahead of time to ensure the safety and have the benefit of watching the astronomical episode. According to Dr. Doug Duncan, the astronomer and the head of Fiske Planetarium, people should consider the following details:
One Has To Travel Away From Their Homes
Though the nation will experience partial eclipse that is, about 75% of the obscured sun, the total eclipse will be evident only within the 70-mile-wide path commencing from Oregon up to South Carolina. Most of these areas are not populated and some regions fall into the ocean.
Use Special Solar Viewer/Glasses
The easiest way to view the eclipse is to use the special handheld solar glasses. These devices are retailing in major stores. The American Astronomical Society has recommended tools from various manufacturing firms including the Rainbow Symphony, Thousand Oaks Optical, and American Paper Optics. Using standard sunglasses are not dark enough to offer protection to the eyes.
Use Projection Methods
There are various projection methods that one can use to watch the event instead of looking directly into the eclipse. The pinhole method offers a chance to view the eclipse whereby a small hole is made on a piece of paper and projected through use of the binoculars or telescope.
The Event is Very Short
The process of the moon obscuring the sun only takes about two minutes.
