Solar eclipse is a moment that has captured the attention of millions across America, all eager to witness the extraordinary event when the moon obscures the sun completely. To safely observe this celestial phenomenon, experts advise using specialized glasses as direct viewing of the sun can pose risks to your eyes. As we anticipate this rare occurrence to commence later today, if you find yourself without the recommended eclipse slasses, you might feel like you’ve missed out on this unique opportunity.
On April 8, a grand total eclipse is poised to darken the sun across a large chunk of North America. The demand for solar-eclipse glasses is soaring, with prices jumping by a staggering 27%. But don’t worry if you can’t get a pair! There are alternative ways to watch this awe-inspiring event without the coveted glasses.
How to watch the eclipse without glasses
If you find yourself without eclipse glasses, there’s no need to fret! You have alternatives. Here are a few simple methods to experience the eclipse even without special eyewear.
Use a pinhole projector
A secure approach to experiencing a solar eclipse without glasses involves creating a pinhole projector using basic materials like cardboard, a pin or needle, and white paper. By allowing sunlight through a small hole in the cardboard onto the paper surface, you can track the progression of the eclipse without gazing directly at the Sun.
Use a colander
If cardboard isn’t within reach, grab a colander instead. By holding it up towards the Sun, you’ll witness multiple miniature images of the eclipse projected onto either the ground or a sheet of white paper below. The holes in your colander act as natural pinhole projectors for observing this phenomenon safely.
Create a DIY eclipse viewer
Another simple yet safe method involves fashioning your DIY viewer using items like a cardboard box, aluminum foil, and pins. By creating an aperture covered with foil on one side of the box and facing it towards sunlight while peering through another hole punctured in foil with pins or needles will project an image of the eclipse inside.
Look for natural pinhole projectors
Nature offers various organic ways to view an eclipse sans glasses such as using gaps between fingers or leaves from trees to cast images on surfaces below. Additionally, seek out tiny openings like those found in straw hats or cheese graters which serve as impromptu pinhole projectors.
Use welder’s glasses
Welder’s glass, a specialized type of glass utilized by welders to shield their eyes from the intense light emitted during welding tasks, is engineered to filter out harmful ultraviolet and infrared rays. This unique glass is ideal for observing an eclipse.
It’s crucial to understand that not every welder’s glass is appropriate for eclipse viewing; the glass should boast a shade number of 14 or higher to ensure adequate eye protection. You can easily acquire welder’s glass at your nearby hardware store or online but remember to verify the shade number before making a purchase.
After obtaining the suitable welder’s glass, it becomes imperative to employ it correctly when observing the eclipse safely. Position the glass in front of your eyes, ensuring full coverage. Never gaze directly at the sun without using welder’s glass as it could result in permanent eye damage.
Watch a live stream
If you can’t access any of the options mentioned above, fret not. Numerous organizations and media outlets will be broadcasting the eclipse live, giving you the chance to witness it safely from the coziness of your home sweet home. NASA is set to stream the eclipse live on their website and across their social media channels. This serves as an excellent alternative for those who can’t make it to a spot where the eclipse is visible.
Conclusion
Always remember to be cautious and avoid staring directly at the sun during a solar eclipse as it could lead to severe eye damage. These substitute methods offer a safe means to observe the eclipse without needing protective eyewear.
Keep in mind that these methods may not match up with using certified eclipse glasses, which offer direct protection for your eyes. If feasible, it’s advisable to grab a pair of eclipse glasses for utmost safety of your eyes during a solar eclipse.
