On April 8th a total solar eclipse occurred, blocking out the sun’s rays nearly completely depending on location.

A total solar eclipse occurs when “ the Moon passes between the Sun and Earth, completely blocking the face of the Sun,” according to NASA. Locations where the moon’s shadow completely covers the sun are called “the path of totality” and become dark, as if it has suddenly become night time. Some locations that experienced totality were Dallas, Texas, Little Rock, Arkansas and Buffalo, New York. 

Another great part of the total eclipse is that scientists were able to see the cornea, which is the outer part of the sun’s atmosphere, which cannot be seen on a normal day. But in order to view the eclipse, some safety measures must be taken. Like any other day, looking right at the sun can damage one’s eyes and the only safe time is during the narrow time and location of totality, but when that ends the sun is just as dangerous as always. Solar filters are the only safe way to view the eclipse. They come in the form of eclipse glasses or hand held solar filters. Homemade methods are not safe to use, even if effective it is not worth any risk.

“ To date four manufacturers have certified that their eclipse glasses and hand-held solar viewers meet the ISO 12312-2 international standard for such products: Rainbow Symphony, American Paper Optics, Thousand Oaks Optical, and TSE 17.” says the U.S National Science foundation. These are their suppliers of eclipse glasses that are safe to use. A good way to tell if eclipse glasses are safe to use is if they have the ISO 12312-2 international standard mark on them, often found on the sides of the glasses.

In conclusion, never risk it. Stay safe and only use specially certified eclipse glasses to enjoy the total solar eclipse. The next eclipse will be in 2044, so if you missed the last one, don’t worry!