TODAY! Tips for Eclipse Safety!

TODAY! Tips for Eclipse Safety! Be sure to keep your peepers safe!

Here is some information about the eclipse:

  • The 2017 Total Solar Eclipse begins at 1:25PM on August 21st. The path crosses the contiguous US- from Lincoln Beach, OR to Charleston, SC. Everyone in North America, plus parts of South America, Africa, and Europe will see at least a partial eclipse. 
  • This is the first total solar eclipse visible in continental US in 38 years!!!
  • The next total solar eclipse visible in US is in April of 2024, and the path will cross parts of northern New England/Niagra Falls.
  • Perigee/Apogee: 221-252K miles (239K Avg)
  • Angular Diameter: 1/2 degree (31 arc min.)
  • Tilt of the Moon's Orbit: 5 degrees from the ecliptic

How to view the eclipse safely:

  • Eclipse viewing glasses
  • Pinhole Camera
  • Telescope Projection
  • NASA has tips online- you can find them on the Talcott Mountain Science Center website
  • Public viewing at TMSC is from 2-4pm- you must RSVP online or call (860) 677-8571

To get to the Talcott Mountain Science Center website, click here.

Read more: http://theriver1059.iheart.com/featured/renee/content/2017-07-28-talcott-mountain-science-center-interview-on-the-great-american-eclipse/#ixzz4qNcogrhm

Photo and info below courtesy of our news partner WFSB Channel 3

Today millions of people will gather to witness the first solar eclipse in 38 years.

While the excitement is counting for the celestial event, experts have reminded people, especially parents, to make sure kids are safe.

The special glasses needed to watch the eclipse are hard to come by now, but experts said they are absolutely necessary to watch it safely and avoid any eye damage.

The first total eclipse seen in the U.S. in almost 40 years has sparked interest in space like never before, especially among kids.

But experts urge parents to go over safety with their children and practice wearing the protective glasses.

"The sun's rays are strong enough to potentially cause permanent damage to the retina if people stare directly at the sun, and for children, in particular, because they may not understand or be able to fully appreciate those risks," Dr. Russel Van Gelder, spokesperson of the American Academy of Ophthalmology, said.

The eclipse will travel almost 2,400 miles on a path from Oregon to South Carolina.

Those not on that 70 mile-wide line will see a partial eclipse.

But experts say to watch out.

"The number one rule for safe eclipse viewing is don't improvise. If you don't know, don't chance it. It's not worth it. You really can damage your eyes," said Dr. Laura Danly, of Griffith Observatory.

When there is such excitement around something, people do take advantage. But unfortunately some take advantage of the event.

Some merchants will try to sell fake eclipse sunglasses. 

In order to avoid buying fake ones, be aware of what to look for:

  • Sunglasses must have special filters
  • Read NASA's recommendations
  • Make sure there are no scratches or damage
  • Read the fine print if ordered online to make sure that they're the right brand

Copyright 2017 WFSB (Meredith Corporation). All rights reserved.


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