More than 300 million people in the United State could potentially view the Aug. 21 total solar eclipse, and NASA is offering tips to make sure those who witness it do so safely.
A partial eclipse will be visible in every state. A total solar eclipse, where the moon completely covers the sun, will occur across 14 states along a 70-mile wide path of totality.
It's common sense not to stare directly at the sun with your naked eyes, and that's also true for a partially eclipsed sun. However, with special-purpose solar filters, such as eclipse glasses or a handheld solar viewer, you can safely look at the sun.
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NASA recommends that you check the authenticity of viewing glasses to ensure they meet basic proper safety viewing standards.
Eclipse viewing glasses and handheld solar viewers should meet the following criteria:
- Have certification information with a designated ISO 12312-2 international standard
- Have the manufacturer's name and address printed somewhere on the product
- Not be used if they are older than 3 years or have scratched or wrinkled lenses
Do not use homemade filters or substitute ordinary sunglasses, not even very dark ones, because they are not safe for looking directly at the sun.
RELATED STORIES:
- 7 things to know about the rare total solar eclipse this August
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- Local libraries offer free eclipse glasses for August's total solar eclipse
- Total solar eclipse in North GA: 'It's going to be a spectacular sight'
Several Georgia libraries are giving away free eclipse glasses. Click here to find one near you.
[TOTAL SOLAR ECLIPSE: Everything you need to know about the rare event]
An alternative method for safe viewing of the partially-eclipsed sun is with a pinhole projector. With this method, sunlight steams through a small hole, such as a pencil hole in a piece of paper, or even the space between your fingers, onto a makeshift screen, such as a piece of paper or the ground. It's important to only watch the screen. Never look at the sun through the pinhole.
Click here for more safety information.