Make the most of the 2017 solar eclipse
A total solar eclipse, which will cross the continental United States from coast to coast for the first time in 1918, is scheduled for August 21.
Astrophysicist and eclipse expert Fred Espenak, also known as Mr. Eclipse, has traveled the world observing solar and lunar eclipses, according to CBS. He has seen eclipses from every continent. He gives eclipse photographing and viewing advice on his website, Mr.Eclipse.com.
Space.com managed to talk to him about his crucial tips for eclipse-viewing newcomers and what they should do if the weather is cloudy before the event.
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He recommends people viewing their first total solar eclipse to buy a special pair of glasses that can be found on the internet and are quite cheap. They’re great for watching the partial phases of the eclipse.
Espenak says that “when totality begins, you take those glasses off, and it’s a hundred percent safe to look at the sun”. He also advises newcomers to avoid taking pictures, as they will miss the eclipse by “fiddling around with cameras”. “Try to drink it in with your eyes and enjoy it,” Espenak says.
Regarding when it is safe to look at the sun safely, without the glasses, he notes: “It’s very distinct. You go from bright sunlight to twilight in a matter of 10 seconds. And everybody around you will start screaming like the home team just made a touchdown at the Super Bowl. It will be unmistakable when it’s safe.”
If the forecast is not ideal, Espenak advises to stay put and hope that the forecast is wrong. There is still something to see, despite the clouds. You will get to experience the sudden darkening during totality, even if it is not as impressive as actually seeing the eclipse.
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