It is never safe to look directly at the sun during an eclipse, or a reflection of the sun, even if it is partly obscured. When watching a solar eclipse, you must wear safe solar viewing glasses at all times (eclipse glasses) if you want to face the sun. Eclipse glasses are not regular sunglasses. Regular sunglasses are not safe for viewing the sun.
During a total solar eclipse, you can take your glasses off and look directly at the sun during the short time when the moon completely obscures the sun - known as the “period of totality.” But remember to put your glasses back on to protect your eyes as the period of totality ends, and the event returns to a partial eclipse phase.
- The only safe way of looking directly at the sun, whether during a solar eclipse or otherwise, is through certified solar filters. These special filters are used in “eclipse glasses.”
- You can watch the eclipse through these devices, but only if they are paired with solar filters: Binoculars and telescopes are safe to use when paired with solar filters or when projecting onto white cardboard. See the graphic below for fun and easy ways to build your safe sun projector.
- With just a few simple supplies, you can make a pinhole camera to watch a solar eclipse safely and easily from anywhere.
Eclipse glasses will be distributed at the science center for students, staff, and faculty members with IDs from Oct. 10 to Oct. 13 at the Science Center. Phi Theta Kappa Honor Society will also have a canopy set up in the Quad for students to pick up glasses Monday through Thursday, 12 p.m. to 2 p.m.