Eclipse Observation Tips

Eclipse Observation Tips

The spectacular sight of a total solar eclipse is for most of us a once-in-a-lifetime event. Unless you're an astronomer or an avid eclipse follower, you'll probably get just one chance to see it. It's estimated that only one in a thousand people ever experiences totality. This wondrous spectacle of the complete halo around the Sun can't be seen under any other earthly circumstances. In addition to the sight of the corona, there are other marvelous phenomena to observe during a total eclipse. The daytime darkness and the swift onset of the Moon's shadow add to the drama of the few short minutes the corona is visible. Shadow bands, Baily's beads, the reaction of plants and animals -- all add to the excitement and impact of the inexorable alignment of Sun, Moon, and Earth. It's simply a matter of being in the right place at the right time -- and knowing what to look for.

Selecting an Observation Site -- Guidelines for finding the optimum location for viewing totality.

Safety Precautions -- It's OK to look at the corona during totality. But you can harm your eyesight if you look at any portion of the bright disk of the Sun before or after totality. Read this before you take a chance with your precious eyesight.

Safe Viewing Techniques -- Instructions for making a pinhole projector, other observations opportunities, safe solar filters.

Observations Checklist -- A summary form you can print and use in your preparations for viewing totality.

** Material adapted from ECLIPSE by Bryan Brewer ($14.95 plus S&H). ECLIPSE Book Order Form. **