Solar Eclipses and Eye Safety

Solar Eclipses

According to the National Aeronautical and Space Administration (NASA), an eclipse is an awe-inspiring celestial event that drastically changes the appearance of the two biggest objects we see in our sky: our Sun and Moon.

Eye safety should always be the number one priority when viewing a solar eclipse. For more information on upcoming eclipses and essential eye safety, read on.

Annular Vs. Total Solar Eclipse

An annular solar eclipse happens when the Moon passes between the Sun and Earth while it is near its farthest point from Earth. Because the Moon is farther away from Earth, it appears smaller than the Sun and does not completely cover the star – creating a “ring of fire” effect in the sky.

A total solar eclipse happens when the Moon passes between the Sun and Earth, completely blocking the face of the Sun. A total solar eclipse is the only type of solar eclipse where viewers can momentarily remove their eclipse glasses or viewers for a brief period of time when the Moon is completely blocking the Sun.

Annular Solar Eclipse: October 14, 2023

The annular solar eclipse will cross North, Central and South America on Saturday, October 14, 2023. Beginning in the U.S., it will travel from the coast of Oregon to the Texas Gulf Coast.

To see all phases of an annular eclipse, you must view it from somewhere along the path of annularity. Weather permitting, a partial solar eclipse will be visible outside the path of annularity.