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Solar Eclipse April 8th, 2024
Image by kjpargeter on Freepik
NH is in the path of a total solar eclipse on April 8th, 2024. We will not see the total solar eclipse in Derry, but we will be able to see a partial eclipse. NH has not been in the direct path of a total solar eclipse since 1959 and won’t be again until 2079!
- Start time: 2:15 pm
- Max: 3:29 pm
- End time: 4:39 pm
On Monday April 8th, there will be a solar eclipse visible from our area. While observing this event can be an exciting and educational experience for our children, it is imperative that they take precautions to safeguard their eyesight. Looking directly at the sun, even during an eclipse, can cause permanent damage to the retina, leading to vision problems or even blindness. Therefore, it is essential for everyone, especially children, to use proper eye protection when viewing the eclipse.
Here are some important guidelines to follow:
- Use solar viewing glasses. Ensure that your child wears specially designed solar viewing glasses that meet the ISO 12312-2 international safety standard. Regular sunglasses, homemade filters, or improvised viewing devices are not safe for observing the sun.
- Talk to your child about the importance of protecting their eyes during the eclipse. Explain the potential risks of looking directly at the sun without proper protection.
- Encourage your child to use indirect viewing methods, such as pinhole projectors or solar telescopes, to observe the eclipse safely if they do not have access to certified solar viewing glasses.
As parents and caregivers, it is our responsibility to prioritize the safety and well-being of our children, especially when it comes to potentially hazardous situations like viewing a solar eclipse. By following these guidelines and taking the necessary precautions, we can ensure that our children have a memorable and safe experience observing this awe-inspiring astronomical event.
Helpful Resources: