Upstate New York is gearing up for an extraordinary celestial event that hasn’t occurred in nearly a century – a total solar eclipse on April 8, 2024. This rare phenomenon will traverse Mexico, the United States, and Canada, offering a unique opportunity for sky gazers to witness the moon completely covering the Sun. However, it is crucial to take precautions and not look directly at the Sun without specialized eye protection.
NASA strongly advises against viewing the eclipse without proper eye protection. Looking at the Sun, even when partially covered by the moon, can cause immediate and serious eye injury. To ensure safe viewing, NASA recommends using eclipse glasses that meet the safety requirements of the ISO 12312-2 international standard. While NASA does not endorse any particular brand, they provide a list of approved brands that are considered safe when used correctly.
For those who want to witness this once-in-a-lifetime event but don’t have access to eclipse glasses, local libraries offer the opportunity to borrow them. The STAR NET, managed by the Space Science Institute, provides free eclipse glasses along with activities, information, and training.
To make your viewing experience easier and pain-free, we have compiled a list of eclipse glasses brands that comply with ISO regulations, as recommended by the American Astronomical Society. Some of these brands can be found at Walmart, but it is essential to carefully read and understand the safety requirements before purchasing solar viewers.
One top-selling brand is the American Paper Optics Eclipser HD Solar Glasses, available on the B&H Photo & Video website for $16.95. These glasses are certified by ISO and CE, ensuring they are safe for direct solar observation. They effectively filter out harmful ultraviolet and infrared rays, as well as intense visible light.
Another brand to consider is the Official Prevent Blindness Eclipse Eyeglasses, currently on sale for $14.99 (originally $32) at WebEyeCare.com. These glasses comply with all safety standards outlined in ISO 12312-2 and provide complete protection against harmful UV and infrared light.
VisiSolar Solar Eclipse Glasses, available at Walmart for $10.01, are manufactured in the United States and endorsed by the American Astronomical Society. They prioritize safety, offering a secure and optimal viewing experience.
For those looking to share the experience with friends and family, the Solar Eclipse Glasses 10 pack from Medical King is available at Walmart for $15. These shades are certified by CE and ISO and adhere to the safety protocols established by the American Astronomical Society.
Now that you have your eclipse glasses ready, you may be wondering where in Upstate New York you can witness the solar eclipse. The path of totality, where the Sun is entirely obscured by the moon for a duration of one minute or more, will span approximately 124 miles in width. This path will traverse Central and Western New York, the Adirondacks, and Lake Ontario. The areas situated in the middle of this path will experience the longest periods of totality.
Buffalo will observe the lengthiest totality period, lasting an impressive 3 minutes and 45 seconds. Syracuse, located closer to the outer edge of the path, will have a totality duration of 1 minute and 24 seconds. Romulus, situated in the Finger Lakes region, will witness totality for less than a minute.
As the date approaches, make sure to prepare yourself with the necessary safety equipment and find the perfect spot to witness this awe-inspiring celestial event. The total solar eclipse of 2024 promises to be a truly unforgettable experience for those fortunate enough to be in Upstate New York during this rare occurrence.
