THE COUNTDOWN IS OVER. IT IS TIME TO WITNESS THE SPECTACULAR EVENT THAT EVERYONE HAS BEEN HYPING UP ALL YEAR. BUT DO YOU REALLY KNOW WHAT YOU ARE WITNessing? THIS POST WILL ANSWER ANY LAST MINUTE QUESTIONS you have REGARDING THIS COSMIC EVENT.
First, what's the difference between a solar and a lunar eclipse?
A solar eclipse occurs when the moon aligns directly with the sun, causing a shadow to cast onto the earth.
A lunar eclipse is the opposite, when the earth aligns directly in front of the sun and the earth’s shadow falls on the moon- causing the moon to turn a reddish/orange color.
On August 21st (so you've heard by now) the moon will pass directly in front of the sun, causing a Total Solar Eclipse. People all across the United States will be flocking to the center of the country, towards the "path of totality," in order to watch the eclipse in all its glory. If you are not in the 70 mile range from Oregon to South Carolina, you will be experiencing a partial eclipse! Find out everything you need to know to prepare for this big event!
Why don't we have eclipses all the time?
We do actually. Solar eclipses occur 4 to 5 times a year. However, a total solar eclipse only happens every 18 months. Total eclipses are less common because the moon does not orbit in a perfect circle around the earth, therefore making it more rare for everything to line up just right. The last total solar eclipse that took place was on March 9, 2016 in Indonesia.
We haven't had total solar eclipse in the US since 1979! Hence why this is a kinda big deal.
What to expect during a partial/total solar eclipse:
The absence of sunlight can cause the temperature to drop 10 degrees
Some stars and planets may be visible. For example, some people will have the chance to see Mercury, which is usually difficult due to its orbit being so close to the sun.
Our shadows will become really freaky and elongated
And if you are in the path of totality (where the moon will COMPLETELY cover the sun) you will be able to see the gaseous atmosphere around the sun called the corona.
How can I view the eclipse?
Okay, first thing's first. DO NOT STARE DIRECTLY INTO THE SUN. Just don't. You will seriously hurt yourself. The eclipse can last up to 2 minutes in some locations. Many people will be tempted to look at the sun for that duration. Staring directly into the sun is equivalent to taking a magnifying glass and focusing the beam of light directly into your eye. Even though the sun is 92 million miles away, its rays are still very powerful.
If you are viewing the partial eclipse (like the majority of the United States) then you will need to wear a pair of protective solar viewing glasses. And no, your cute Ray Bans won't cut it. The American Astronomical Society released a list of reputable venders that sold solar glasses. Many schools, libraries and science museums passed out free glasses as well.
If you were fortunate enough to get your hands on a pair solar glasses, check that they have been verified by an accredited testing laboratory to meet the international safety standard. You can do this by checking for the "ISO 12312-2" number located on the inner side.
Okay, I missed out on the glasses. Now what?
If you did not get a chance to snag some lenses, do not worry! You have a couple of other safe ways to view the excitement.
Some people are opting to make a pinhole projector. It may not be as climactic as viewing the real thing, but you will save a trip to the eye doctor. The Verge has a great tutorial on this DYI project.
As another alternative, you can also tune in to the many live streams broadcasted across the US!
And if you are not satisfied with these options, don't worry, you will have another SEVEN years to prepare for the next total eclipse taking place April 8, 2024.
What time are the festivities?
Times vary depending on where you live. Vox has prepared this super convenient generator that tells you what time the eclipse will reach its peak based on your zip code. Check it out!