Eclipse Tips and Safety Measures

This rare and awe-inspiring event will offer a breathtaking display of light and darkness as the moon completely blocks out the sun.

We understand the importance of experiencing such a celestial event safely and would like to share some tips to protect your eyes from potential damage:

• Certified Eclipse Glasses: Regular sunglasses are not sufficient for viewing a solar eclipse. We recommend wearing certified eclipse glasses that meet the ISO 12312-2 international safety standard. These glasses can block out harmful ultraviolet and infrared light, allowing you to safely view the sun’s rays. The AAS advises the public to not search for eclipse glasses on the internet and buy whatever pops up in the ads or search results. Check the AAS list of reputable vendors and buy from one of them.
• Always read and follow all directions that come with the solar filter or eclipse glasses. Help children to be sure they use handheld solar viewers and eclipse glasses correctly.
• Before looking up at the bright sun, stand still and cover your eyes with your eclipse glasses or solar viewer. After glancing at the sun, turn away and remove your filter—do not remove it while looking at the sun.
• Check the Weather: The visibility of the solar eclipse will depend on the weather. Keep an eye on the local forecast leading up to April 8th. If it’s cloudy, you may have to find a different location to view the eclipse.
• Know the Timings: Understanding the timing of the eclipse will help you plan your viewing. The eclipse will occur in phases: the beginning (first contact), the maximum eclipse, and the end (fourth contact). Make sure you know the timings of these phases in our area.
• Attend a Viewing Event: We encourage our community members to join us at the Marion VA Health Care System for a viewing event. It’s a great way to share the experience with others and learn more about the eclipse from experts.
• The only time that you can look at the sun without a solar viewer is during a total eclipse. When the moon completely covers the sun’s bright face and it suddenly gets dark, you can remove your solar filter to watch this unique experience. Then, as soon as the bright sun begins to reappear very slightly, immediately use your solar viewer again to watch the remaining partial phase of the eclipse.
• Solar Filters for Telescopes and Cameras: If you plan to capture the eclipse with a telescope or camera, make sure to attach a solar filter to the lens. This will prevent the intense light from damaging your equipment and ensure that you can capture stunning images of the eclipse without risking your eyesight. Never look at the uneclipsed or partially eclipsed sun through an unfiltered camera, telescope, binoculars or other similar devices. This is important even if you are wearing eclipse glasses or holding a solar viewer at the same time. The intense solar rays coming through these devices will damage the solar filter and your eyes.
• Avoid Looking Directly at the Sun: Even with eclipse glasses or solar filters, it is not safe to stare directly at the sun for an extended period. Take breaks from observing the eclipse and rest your eyes to prevent strain and potential damage.
• Watch Online or on Television: If you are unable to safely view the eclipse in person, consider watching a live stream online or on television. This will allow you to experience the event without risking your eyesight.

How can you tell if your solar viewer is safe?

You shouldn't be able to see anything through a safe solar filter except the sun or something comparably bright, such as the sun reflected in a mirror. If you can see lights of more ordinary brightness through your eclipse glasses or handheld viewer, and you're not sure the product came from a reputable vendor, it's no good.

By following these safety tips, you can enjoy the total solar eclipse on April 8 while protecting your eyes from harm. Remember to plan ahead, stay safe, and enjoy the wonders of the universe responsibly. We look forward to sharing this extraordinary event with our community.