By Paul Silverfarb
Sentinel Editor
After a plethora of hype, the Solar Eclipse that could be seen throughout the country, will finally be upon us in a few short hours.
On Monday, Aug. 21, the shadow of the moon will start to cover the sun at 1:25 p.m. The Town of Greenwich will see around 70% of the sun covered during its peak at 2:44 p.m. The partial eclipse will end a few seconds after 4 p.m.
The last time this country saw a solar eclipse from the West Coast to East Coast was back in 1918 and the last time the Nutmeg State witnessed a total eclipse was Jan. 24, 1925. In fact, the next time Connecticut will see a partial eclipse will be in 2024 and a total eclipse won’t happen until May 1, 2079.
This amazing event only happens once or twice in a lifetime and people can’t wait to step outside and see the partial eclipse that will cover the state. However, with great power comes great responsibility.
It can’t be stressed enough to not look directly at the sun during the duration of the eclipse. The only safe time to see the eclipse is the brief time of totality. However, since Connecticut will only have around 70% of the moon shadowing the sun, no time is a good time to look directly at the eclipse.
Looking directly at the partial eclipse, without protection, can cause blurred vision or blind spots, as the light exposure will damage the retina.
According to NASA’s website, the only safe way to see this event is through solar filters such as solar glasses or solar viewers. People with solar glasses or viewers should check to make sure they are compliant with the ISO 12312-2 safety standard. Telescopes and binoculars must have a solar filter on at all times.
NASA also states for people to look over their solar filters or glasses for scratches or damages. If they are scratched or damaged, discard immediately and don’t attempt to look at the eclipse.
It’s tempting to remember this eclipse by taking photos of the event, use extreme caution. DSLR cameras must use a solar filter. It is possible to take photos with your smartphone. To attempt this, visit NASA’s site on how to safely take photos here.
While it is recommended to stay at your location until the partial eclipse concluded just after 4 p.m., use common sense while operating a vehicle if you have to be behind the wheel. Keep your eyes focused on the road at all times.
So go out there and safely enjoy Monday’s partial eclipse in Greenwich.
