As I write this, no doubt some of you are looking forward to next Saturday when the October 14, 2023, annular solar eclipse takes place. Right now, the prediction is for us to have clouds that day. Whether or not we get to see it, I hope you do.
On April 8, 2024, a total solar eclipse is also going to occur—do you have in mind the difference?
During an annular eclipse, the moon is farther away from us in its orbit, and that makes it appear a little bit smaller than the sun. So, there will be a “ring of fire” around the sun next week. Next year, though, the moon will totally block out the sun for a few minutes, for those in the heart of the path of totality.
We have solar telescopes, filters, and glasses to help you enjoy the experience.
Safety tip—never think that solar sunglasses will protect your eyes if you look through an unfiltered optic. THEY WILL NOT. A HOLE WILL BURN RIGHT THROUGH THE FILM. UNFILTERED SUNLIGHT WILL CAUSE INSTANT BLINDNESS.
From the Editor’s Quill, November 2023
