Solar eclipses are among the most exciting celestial events.  Although total solar eclipses happen somewhere in the world nearly every year, there will be no more for the continental United States until 2045.  Despite that, Acadiana observers will see partial solar eclipses in 2028 and 2029.  Whether you travel for a total solar eclipse or wait for one of those partials, if you use a safe technique they are completely safe to observe.  However you must remember the most important rule:  Never look directly at the sun!  Looking directly at the sun can very quickly cause eye damage and even blindness, and all of that damage can be permanent.  Most of the time, people have enough sense not to look directly at the sun, and it’s critical to resist the temptation to break that rule during an eclipse.  The eclipse is no more dangerous than any other day—there’s no need to hide from it—but care must be taken.

 

Again, never look directly at the sun!

 

Click on these links to get ready for any solar eclipse.  Find out how solar eclipses happen, how to find safe eclipse-viewing glasses, ways to observe an eclipse safely using other techniques, and to print out a free handout for making a safe way to watch the action.

 

But remember—never look directly at the sun!