{"id":56259,"date":"2024-03-14T19:30:04","date_gmt":"2024-03-14T19:30:04","guid":{"rendered":"http:\/\/56d89f5c-52ca-4b41-be03-cd5102d7b574"},"modified":"2024-03-14T20:33:47","modified_gmt":"2024-03-14T20:33:47","slug":"the-best-safest-ways-to-view-a-solar-eclipse-from-beginners-to-experienced-observers","status":"publish","type":"rss_feed","link":"https:\/\/c01.purpledshub.com\/bbcskyatnight\/rss_feed\/the-best-safest-ways-to-view-a-solar-eclipse-from-beginners-to-experienced-observers\/","title":{"rendered":"The best, safest ways to view a solar eclipse, from beginners to experienced observers"},"content":{"rendered":"

What are the best and safest ways to view an eclipse? <\/p>

By Ezzy Pearson\n <\/p>

Published: Thursday, 14 March 2024 at 19:30 PM<\/p>

\n\n

If there’s an upcoming solar eclipse event near you, it pays to explore what options you have to safely view a solar eclipse.<\/p>

A solar eclipse<\/a> is a wonderful thing.<\/p>

Those of us who have been lucky enough to witness totality are well aware of the ethereal, life-changing moment that occurs when darkness descends and the the Moon blocks out the light from our host star the Sun.<\/p>

Of course, not all solar eclipses are total solar eclipses. Depending on where you view the eclipse, you many only see a partial solar eclipse.<\/p>

If you’re getting ready for the April 8 2024 solar eclipse<\/a>, read on for our guide on how to view it safely.<\/p>

Find out when the next eclipse<\/a> is taking place<\/strong><\/em><\/li><\/ul>
Video: Safely observing a solar eclipse<\/strong><\/h2>
<\/div><\/figure><p>When observing the Sun, safety is key. You should never observe the Sun with the naked eye or with homemade equipment.<\/p><p>Only ever use certified solar filters, <a href=\"https:\/\/www.skyatnightmagazine.com\/top-astronomy-kit\/best-solar-telescopes\">solar telescopes<\/a> or <a href=\"https:\/\/www.skyatnightmagazine.com\/top-astronomy-kit\/best-solar-eclipse-glasses\/\">eclipse glasses<\/a> to view the Sun or a solar eclipse.<\/p><p>Here are some ways you can safely observe a solar eclipse.<\/p><h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"h-5-ways-to-safely-view-a-solar-eclipse\"><strong>5 ways to safely view a solar eclipse<\/strong><\/h2><h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"h-projection-through-a-colander\"><strong>Projection through a colander<\/strong><\/h3><figure class=\"wp-block-image size-full\"><figcaption class=\"wp-element-caption\"> A regular kitchen colander can be used to project an eclipse onto a piece of white paper or card. Photo by Jessica Rinaldi\/The Boston Globe via Getty Images<\/figcaption><\/figure><h4 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><strong>Pros <\/strong><\/h4><ul><li>Cheap and easy<\/li><li>Great for large groups of people<\/li><\/ul><h4 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"h-cons\"><strong>Cons<\/strong><\/h4><ul><li>Views are quite small<\/li><li>No detail can be seen apart from the crescents<\/li><\/ul><h4 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"h-equipment\"><strong>Equipment<\/strong><\/h4><ul><li>Colander<\/li><li>Piece of white card<\/li><\/ul><p>Simply hold up a kitchen colander during an eclipse and you will see that myriad small crescents \u2013 corresponding to the eclipsed phase of the Sun \u2013 are cast in the shadow.<\/p><p>Each hole acts in the same way as a pinhole camera, projecting an inverted image of the Sun, and this works even if the holes are not round.<\/p><p>This effect can also be seen when sunlight shines through leaves on a tree or other foliage, with the gaps between leaves acting as pinholes and creating crescents of light in the shade on the ground.\u00a0<\/p><p>Casting the image onto a white piece of card held about 50cm away will increase the contrast, making the event easier to see, however any light-coloured surface will work.<\/p><figure class=\"wp-block-image size-large\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/c02.purpledshub.com\/uploads\/sites\/48\/2024\/03\/eclipse-colander-1024x684.jpg?fit=800%2C534\" alt=\"The 14 October 2023 annular solar eclipse captured through a kitchen colander by Donald Samuels from Colorado, USA.\" class=\"wp-image-147959\" data-recalc-dims=\"1\"\/><figcaption class=\"wp-element-caption\">The 14 October 2023 annular solar eclipse captured through a kitchen colander by Donald Samuels from Colorado, USA.<\/figcaption><\/figure><p>Try varying this distance to find the sharpest image, as the size of the holes in different colanders will affect the view.<\/p><p>This method is the cheapest and easiest way for a group of people to simultaneously view the eclipse and its progress with no risk to either eyesight or equipment.\u00a0<\/p><p>The results can be easily photographed using any conventional camera.<\/p><p>The only downside is the size of the crescents are quite small.<\/p><p>Increasing the distance between the colander and the projection screen will make the crescents larger, but also less defined.<\/p><p>As such, other than the crescent itself, no details such as sunspots can be seen.\u00a0<\/p><h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"h-eclipse-glasses\"><strong>Eclipse glasses<\/strong><\/h3><figure class=\"wp-block-image size-full\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"724\" height=\"483\" src=\"https:\/\/c02.purpledshub.com\/uploads\/sites\/48\/2020\/06\/GettyImages-1169560785-3ac7016.jpg\" alt=\"Eclipse-chasers often use eclipse glasses as a safe way of observing a solar eclipse.\" class=\"wp-image-49966\" title=\"\"\/><figcaption class=\"wp-element-caption\">Getty<\/figcaption><\/figure><h4 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"h-pros\"><b><strong>Pros<\/strong><\/b><\/h4><ul><li>Easy<\/li><li>Can see some of the Sun’s detail<\/li><\/ul><h4 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"h-cons-1\"><strong>Cons<\/strong><\/h4><ul><li>Cannot take images<\/li><li>Cannot see as much detail as with a solar telescope<\/li><\/ul><h4 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"h-equipment-1\"><strong>Equipment<\/strong><\/h4><ul><li>Get a pair of solar eclipse glasses from a certified retailer. Accept no substitutes!<\/li><\/ul><p>Solar eclipse glasses are perhaps the easiest way of directly observing a solar eclipse. Simply put on your certified solar eclipse glasses and look up!<\/p><p>Solar eclipse glasses are safe because they block all but a small amount of the Sun\u2019s ultraviolet, visible and infrared light, meaning the wearer can observe the Sun without causing damage to their eyesight.<\/p><p>However, looking at the Sun for long periods is unadvisable, even with eclipse glasses on. Aim to observe in short stints instead.<\/p><p>And only buy certified safe solar eclipse glasses from reputable suppliers.<\/p><p>Look for the\u00a0<a href=\"https:\/\/www.iso.org\/home.html\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">International Organization for Standardization<\/a>\u00a0(ISO) mark, the\u00a0<a href=\"https:\/\/www.iso.org\/standard\/59289.html\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">ISO 12312-2 standard<\/a>\u00a0for filters.<\/p><p>Some suppliers will even provide you with a report showing compliance with ISO 12312-2.<\/p><p>And also be sure to check the lenses for scratches and tears first.<\/p><p>Solar eclipse glasses allow you to see the detail of the Sun with your own eyes, but of course they don’t allow you to take any photos.<\/p><h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"h-view-through-a-white-light-filter\"><strong>View through a white light filter<\/strong><strong\/><\/h3><figure class=\"wp-block-image size-full\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"1800\" height=\"1200\" src=\"https:\/\/c02.purpledshub.com\/uploads\/sites\/48\/2020\/05\/How-to-make-a-white-light-solar-filter-05-f0a0155.jpg\" alt=\"Using a white light filter on your telescope is a safe way of observing a solar eclipse.\" class=\"wp-image-48597\" title=\"\"\/><figcaption class=\"wp-element-caption\">Credit: Pete Lawrence<\/figcaption><\/figure><h4 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"h-pros-2\"><strong>Pros <\/strong><\/h4><ul><li>Can be adapted to fit any telescope<\/li><li>Quick and portable option<\/li><li>Can see good detail on the Sun<\/li><\/ul><h4 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"h-cons-2\"><strong>Cons<\/strong><\/h4><ul><li>Requires careful construction (if in doubt, don’t attempt!)<\/li><li>Materials used are perishable and must be checked for defects<\/li><\/ul><h4 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"h-equipment-2\"><strong>Equipment<\/strong><\/h4><ul><li>Solar safety film<\/li><li>Card<\/li><li>Sticky tape<\/li><li>Telescope<\/li><\/ul><p>One of the best ways to safely a solar eclipse is to fit a white light filter over the front of your telescope.<\/p><p>Filters are relatively simple to make using sheets of certified solar film cut to size.<\/p><p>Once you\u2019ve made your filter, you must check it for pinprick holes and tears each time you\u2019re about to fit it.If you find any, discard the filter and make a new one.<\/p><p>Make sure that the mask fits over the entire aperture and that no light can leak around its edges<\/p><p>When you use the filter, it\u2019s important to also remove or cap your telescope\u2019s finder.<\/p><p>Always make sure the telescope is pointing away from the Sun before fitting the filter.<\/p><p>When you\u2019re done observing, do the same \u2013 aim the telescope away from the Sun before removing it.<\/p><h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"h-view-in-hydrogen-alpha\"><strong>View in Hydrogen Alpha<\/strong><\/h3><figure class=\"wp-block-image size-full\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"940\" height=\"530\" src=\"https:\/\/c02.purpledshub.com\/uploads\/sites\/48\/2019\/05\/FL3_Main2-32e9c9b.jpg\" alt=\"If you want to safely observe a solar eclipse up-close, a solar telescope is a great option.\" class=\"wp-image-29629\"\/><\/figure><h4 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"h-pros-3\"><strong>Pros <\/strong><\/h4><ul><li>Great levels of detail<\/li><li>Options available for using regular scopes<\/li><\/ul><h4 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"h-cons-3\"><strong>Cons<\/strong><\/h4><ul><li>More expensive than other methods<\/li><\/ul><h4 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"h-equipment-3\"><strong>Equipment<\/strong><\/h4><ul><li>A hydrogen alpha refractor<\/li><li>Or an etalon filter system<\/li><\/ul><p>A variety of manufacturers offering dedicated hydrogen-alpha telescopes or filter sets that fit onto regular telescopes.<\/p><p>A dedicated hydrogen-alpha refractor offers the easiest and most affordable way to see our star in this way.<\/p><p>All you need is a suitable mount and eyepiece to get observing.<\/p><p>If you already own a good refractor or Schmidt-Cassegrain telescope, it is possible to buy an etalon filter system to go on the objective lens, and used with a blocking filter on the rear of the scope it offers excellent views.<\/p><p>Whichever method you choose hydrogen-alpha views are simply stunning, with a wealth of features on show.<\/p><h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"h-use-a-solar-projection-screen\"><strong>Use a solar projection screen<\/strong><\/h3><figure class=\"wp-block-image size-landscape_thumbnail\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"878\" height=\"560\" src=\"https:\/\/c02.purpledshub.com\/uploads\/sites\/48\/2021\/01\/GettyImages-57206006-d157f73-e1610550192577.jpg\" alt=\"A projection screen is a great way to safely observe a solar eclipse.\" class=\"wp-image-57561\" title=\"\"\/><figcaption class=\"wp-element-caption\">Projection of a partial solar eclipse in New Delhi, India, 29 March 2006. CreditL Manan Vatsyayana\/AFP via Getty Images<\/figcaption><\/figure><h4 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"h-pros-4\"><strong>Pros<\/strong><\/h4><ul><li>Incredibly safe, as you are observing the Sun indirectly<\/li><li>Good for observing in groups<\/li><li>Easy and safe for children to see<\/li><\/ul><h4 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"h-cons-4\"><strong>Cons<\/strong><\/h4><ul><li>Requires a bit of preparation<\/li><li>Lack of detail on solar surface<\/li><\/ul><p>It is possible to project a view of the Sun or a solar eclipse onto a screen, allowing for safe observation of our host star.<\/p><p>For more info, find out <a href=\"https:\/\/www.skyatnightmagazine.com\/advice\/make-a-solar-projection-screen\/\">how to make a solar projection screen<\/a>.<\/p> <\/body><\/html>\n<hr class=\"no-tts wp-block-separator\"\/>","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"<p>What are the best and safest ways to view an eclipse? <\/p>\n","protected":false},"author":24,"featured_media":56260,"template":"","categories":[1],"acf":{"readingTimeMinutes":"6"},"uagb_featured_image_src":{"full":["https:\/\/c01.purpledshub.com\/uploads\/sites\/77\/2024\/03\/the-best-safest-ways-to-view-a-solar-eclipse-from-beginners-to-experienced-observers.jpg",878,560,false],"thumbnail":["https:\/\/c01.purpledshub.com\/uploads\/sites\/77\/2024\/03\/the-best-safest-ways-to-view-a-solar-eclipse-from-beginners-to-experienced-observers-150x150.jpg",150,150,true],"medium":["https:\/\/c01.purpledshub.com\/uploads\/sites\/77\/2024\/03\/the-best-safest-ways-to-view-a-solar-eclipse-from-beginners-to-experienced-observers-300x191.jpg",300,191,true],"medium_large":["https:\/\/c01.purpledshub.com\/uploads\/sites\/77\/2024\/03\/the-best-safest-ways-to-view-a-solar-eclipse-from-beginners-to-experienced-observers-768x490.jpg",768,490,true],"large":["https:\/\/c01.purpledshub.com\/uploads\/sites\/77\/2024\/03\/the-best-safest-ways-to-view-a-solar-eclipse-from-beginners-to-experienced-observers.jpg",800,510,false],"1536x1536":["https:\/\/c01.purpledshub.com\/uploads\/sites\/77\/2024\/03\/the-best-safest-ways-to-view-a-solar-eclipse-from-beginners-to-experienced-observers.jpg",878,560,false],"2048x2048":["https:\/\/c01.purpledshub.com\/uploads\/sites\/77\/2024\/03\/the-best-safest-ways-to-view-a-solar-eclipse-from-beginners-to-experienced-observers.jpg",878,560,false]},"uagb_author_info":{"display_name":"importmanagerhub@sprylab.com","author_link":"https:\/\/c01.purpledshub.com\/bbcskyatnight\/author\/importmanagerhubsprylab-com\/"},"uagb_comment_info":0,"uagb_excerpt":"What are the best and safest ways to view an eclipse?","_links":{"self":[{"href":"https:\/\/c01.purpledshub.com\/bbcskyatnight\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/rss_feed\/56259"}],"collection":[{"href":"https:\/\/c01.purpledshub.com\/bbcskyatnight\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/rss_feed"}],"about":[{"href":"https:\/\/c01.purpledshub.com\/bbcskyatnight\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/types\/rss_feed"}],"author":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/c01.purpledshub.com\/bbcskyatnight\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/users\/24"}],"wp:featuredmedia":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/c01.purpledshub.com\/bbcskyatnight\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media\/56260"}],"wp:attachment":[{"href":"https:\/\/c01.purpledshub.com\/bbcskyatnight\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media?parent=56259"}],"wp:term":[{"taxonomy":"category","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/c01.purpledshub.com\/bbcskyatnight\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/categories?post=56259"}],"curies":[{"name":"wp","href":"https:\/\/api.w.org\/{rel}","templated":true}]}}