On August 21, 2017, many parts of North America will experience a total solar eclipse (when the moon passes fully in front of the sun). While these cool natural phenomena occur about once every 18 months somewhere around the earth, this is the first one since 1979 that will be easily visible in the United States. The next one will take place in 2024, but it won’t touch the western U.S. so now is your chance to witness this sun-darkening event.
Where and When?
If you want to experience the full effects of the total solar eclipse, you will have to travel to a point along its path of totality, which starts in Oregon and ends in South Carolina. For us in northern California, it will only be a partial solar eclipse, but it still promises to be worth a look. For those in the Fairfield area, the eclipse will begin about 9 am and finish by 11:30 am, with the peak occurring around 10:15 am.
How Can I See It?
Looking directly at the sun is never a good idea, even when it is partially covered up by the moon. If you want to stare heavenward to witness the event you will need special glasses or lenses to protect your eyes from damage. Not even regular sunglasses will be enough. And never look at the sun through a telescope without protective filters.
The American Astronomical Society has a list of “Reputable Vendors of Solar Filters & Viewers” on its website that offer eclipse-safe glasses that you can purchase online or at stores near you. You can call or visit Dr. Christensen’s office to purchase proper protective eyewear. Supplies are limited, so act quickly!
Even if you do not have suitable eyewear for the eclipse, you can still enjoy the experience by using your phone. Dr. Christensen suggests videoing or photographing the eclipse with your smart phone. If you plan to video for several minutes, NASA recommends placing a darkening filter over your phone’s camera.
So to recap: the partial eclipse (for California) will happen Monday, August 21, 2107 at 10:15 am and make sure you have protective eyewear ready to view this rare celestial experience.
