Eclipse Viewing Guide

Solar Eclipse: A solar eclipse happens when the Moon comes between the Sun and Earth, casting a shadow on Earth. During a total eclipse, the Moon completely blocks the Sun’s light, creating a brief period of darkness. In a partial eclipse, the Moon only covers part of the Sun.

Lunar Eclipse: A lunar eclipse occurs when the Earth comes between the Sun and Moon, and the Moon passes into Earth’s shadow.

Safe Eclipse Viewing Looking directly at the Sun, even during an eclipse, can permanently damage your eyes. Here’s how to view an eclipse safely:

Solar Eclipse Glasses: These specially designed glasses have filters that block harmful solar radiation. Look for glasses certified to meet the ISO 12312-2:2015 international safety standard.

Handheld Solar Viewer: Similar to eclipse glasses, these viewers have solar filters and project a safe image of the Sun onto a small screen.

Important Safety Tips Never look directly at the Sun with your naked eyes, even for a moment. This is true during all phases of a solar eclipse except totality (when the Moon completely covers the Sun).

Never use ordinary sunglasses, even very dark ones, to view the Sun. They do not block enough solar radiation.

Inspect your solar filter carefully before use. If it’s damaged (scratched, cracked, etc.), throw it away.

Always supervise children using solar filters.

Only remove your solar filter after completely turning away from the Sun.

Alternative Viewing Methods (for Partial Eclipses):
Pinhole Projection: This indirect method creates a safe image of the eclipsed Sun on the ground. You can find instructions for making a pinhole projector online.