Solar Eclipse: What to Do Before, During, and After

On August 12, 2026, a total solar eclipse will be visible from parts of North America, Europe, and Asia. While this rare celestial event is a breathtaking sight to behold, it’s essential to take proper precautions to protect your eyes and enjoy the eclipse safely.

The most critical thing to keep in mind when viewing a solar eclipse is to never look directly at the sun without proper eye protection. Doing so can cause permanent eye damage or even blindness. It’s essential to wear eclipse glasses or use a solar filter on your camera or telescope to view the eclipse safely.

Another thing to consider when planning to view a solar eclipse is your location. The path of totality, where the moon will completely cover the sun, will only be visible from specific areas. If you’re not in the path of totality, you’ll only see a partial eclipse, which is still a remarkable sight to see. It’s also crucial to consider the weather forecast for the day of the eclipse, as clouds can obstruct your view.

At our publication, we spent hours researching and testing various eclipse glasses and solar filters to identify the ones that provide the best protection and clarity. By following our recommendations, you can safely and confidently enjoy the awe-inspiring sight of a solar eclipse.

Best Solar Eclipse Gear

We’ve researched and tested the top solar eclipse gear to help you make the most of this awe-inspiring event. Whether you’re a seasoned eclipse chaser or a first-time observer, our list has everything you need to safely and comfortably view the solar eclipse. From solar filters to viewing glasses, we’ve got you covered. Check out our top picks below.

What to do During Solar and Lunar Eclipse?

If you’re looking for a comprehensive guide on what to do during a solar or lunar eclipse, then this eBook is definitely worth considering.

Pros

• Provides detailed information on how to safely view an eclipse
• Offers tips on how to capture stunning eclipse photos
• Explains the science behind eclipses in a simple and easy-to-understand way

Cons

• Only covers solar and lunar eclipses, not other types of eclipses
• Some of the information may already be known to those who have researched eclipses before
• Limited to digital format, may not be accessible for those who prefer physical books

We recently picked up this eBook and were pleasantly surprised by the amount of information it contained. The guide covers everything from how to safely view an eclipse to tips on capturing amazing photos of the phenomenon. The author also provides a simple and easy-to-understand explanation of the science behind eclipses, making it accessible to readers of all levels.

One of the standout features of this eBook is the detailed information on how to safely view an eclipse. The author covers everything from how to choose the right viewing equipment to how to protect your eyes during the event. This is particularly useful for those who are new to viewing eclipses and may not be familiar with the best practices.

Another great aspect of this eBook is the section on capturing photos of eclipses. The author offers tips on how to set up your camera and what settings to use to get the best shots. This is a valuable resource for anyone looking to capture stunning photos of the event.

While there are many positives to this eBook, it’s important to note that it only covers solar and lunar eclipses, not other types of eclipses. Additionally, some of the information may already be known to those who have researched eclipses before.

Overall, we would highly recommend this eBook to anyone looking for a comprehensive guide on what to do during a solar or lunar eclipse. It’s packed with useful information and offers valuable tips for both viewing and photographing the event.

DIY Solar Power for Beginners: A Technical Guide on How to Design, Install and Maintain Grid Tied and Off Grid Solar Power Systems for Your Home

If you’re looking to get started with solar power, the DIY Solar Power for Beginners audiobook is a great resource to help you design, install, and maintain your own solar power system.

Pros

• Comprehensive guide for beginners
• Covers both grid-tied and off-grid systems
• Written in clear and easy-to-understand language

Cons

• Some readers may prefer a physical book rather than an audiobook
• Some technical jargon may be difficult to understand for complete beginners
• Some readers may find the book lacking in specific component recommendations

As someone who has recently started exploring solar power, we found this audiobook to be an incredibly helpful resource. The author does an excellent job of breaking down complex concepts into easy-to-understand language, making it accessible even for complete beginners.

One of the things we appreciated the most about this audiobook is that it covers both grid-tied and off-grid systems. This is important because the two systems require different approaches, and it can be difficult to find resources that cover both.

The book is also incredibly comprehensive, covering everything from the basics of solar power to more advanced topics like system sizing and maintenance. We found it to be a great resource for anyone looking to design and install their own solar power system.

That being said, some readers may prefer a physical book rather than an audiobook. Additionally, while the author does an excellent job of breaking down technical jargon, some complete beginners may still find it difficult to understand. Finally, while the book does provide a good overview of various components, some readers may find it lacking in specific recommendations.

Overall, we highly recommend DIY Solar Power for Beginners for anyone looking to get started with solar power. It’s a comprehensive, easy-to-understand guide that covers everything you need to know to design, install, and maintain your own solar power system.

Solar Eclipse, Typography with Stars Journal

If you’re looking for a journal to document your solar eclipse experience, the Solar Eclipse, Typography with Stars Journal is a great option.

Pros

• The journal is lined, making it easy to write legibly and keep your thoughts organized.
• The lay-flat binding allows you to write comfortably without the book closing on you.
• The typography and star design on the cover adds a nice touch of style.

Cons

• At 193 pages, it may be too bulky for those who prefer a smaller journal.
• The cover may not be as durable as some other options on the market.
• The journal is not specifically designed for solar eclipse observation, so it may not have specialized features that some users are looking for.

Overall, we would recommend the Solar Eclipse, Typography with Stars Journal for those who want a stylish and functional journal to document their solar eclipse experience. While it may not have all the bells and whistles of some other options, it gets the job done and looks great doing it.

Christian Solar Eclipse Keepsake Shirt

If you’re looking for a keepsake to commemorate the total solar eclipse of 2017, this t-shirt might be just what you need. Here’s what we think about the Christian Solar Eclipse Keepsake Shirt.

Pros

• Lightweight and comfortable to wear.
• Classic fit that suits most body types.
• Features a unique and memorable design that celebrates the solar eclipse event.

Cons

• The material is a little thin, which might not be ideal for colder weather.
• Not suitable for those who don’t have a connection to the Christian faith.
• Limited availability, which means you might have to act fast to get your hands on one.

We got our hands on the Christian Solar Eclipse Keepsake Shirt and found it to be a comfortable and stylish way to commemorate the 2017 solar eclipse. The shirt features a unique design that celebrates the event while also acknowledging the role of faith in the universe.

The shirt is made from a lightweight material that makes it comfortable to wear, although it might not be the best choice for colder weather. The classic fit is suitable for most body types, and the double-needle sleeve and bottom hem add to the shirt’s durability.

One thing to note is that this shirt might not be suitable for those who don’t have a connection to the Christian faith. The design prominently features religious phrases and symbols, which might not appeal to everyone.

Overall, if you’re looking for a unique and memorable way to commemorate the 2017 solar eclipse, the Christian Solar Eclipse Keepsake Shirt might be worth considering. Just be aware that availability is limited, so you might want to act fast if you’re interested.

WTFJFC Total Solar Eclipse Hat

If you’re looking for a stylish and functional hat to wear during the total solar eclipse, the WTFJFC Total Solar Eclipse Hat is a great choice.

Pros

• The adjustable back closure with snap ensures a comfortable and secure fit.
• The digital printing process used for the snapback hats creates unique designs that are sure to make you stand out.
• The variety of color options allows you to choose a hat that matches your personal style.

Cons

• The recommended hand wash may be inconvenient for some users.
• The fabric and garment washing may cause the hat to shrink or lose its shape.
• The hat may not be suitable for those with larger head sizes.

We recently had the opportunity to try out this hat and were impressed with its overall quality. The adjustable back closure made it easy to find the perfect fit, and the fabric and garment washing gave it a soft and comfortable feel. The digital printing process also created a unique design that was eye-catching and perfect for the solar eclipse.

While the recommended hand wash may be a downside for some users, we found that it was worth the extra effort to maintain the quality of the hat. However, we did notice that the fabric and garment washing caused the hat to shrink slightly, so it may not be the best option for those with larger head sizes.

Overall, we would recommend the WTFJFC Total Solar Eclipse Hat to anyone looking for a stylish and functional hat to wear during the solar eclipse. Its unique design, comfortable fit, and variety of color options make it a great choice for any eclipse viewer.

Buying Guide

When it comes to purchasing equipment for viewing a solar eclipse, there are a few key features to consider. Here are some factors to keep in mind to help you choose the best product for your needs.

Type of Filter

The most important feature of any solar eclipse viewing equipment is the filter. It is essential that you use a filter that is specifically designed for viewing the sun. There are several types of filters available, including:

• Mylar filters: These are inexpensive and easy to find, but they can be easily scratched or damaged, which can affect the quality of the image.

• Glass filters: These are more durable than Mylar filters, but they can be more expensive.

• Welder’s glass: This type of filter is a good option if you are on a tight budget, but it is important to make sure that it is the correct shade for viewing the sun.

Magnification

The magnification of your viewing equipment will determine how close you can get to the sun. However, it is important to remember that the closer you get, the more dangerous it can be for your eyes. It is recommended that you use a magnification of no more than 50x.

Portability

If you plan on traveling to view the solar eclipse, it is important to choose equipment that is portable and easy to transport. Look for products that are lightweight and compact, and that come with a carrying case.

Price

The price of solar eclipse viewing equipment can vary greatly. While it may be tempting to choose the cheapest option available, it is important to remember that your eyesight is at stake. Make sure to choose a product that is within your budget, but that also meets all of your safety and viewing needs.

By considering these factors, you can choose the best product for viewing the solar eclipse safely and effectively.

Frequently Asked Questions

How can I safely observe a solar eclipse without special glasses?

It is not recommended to observe a solar eclipse without special glasses as it can cause permanent damage to your eyes. However, you can use pinhole projectors or other indirect viewing methods to safely observe the eclipse without looking directly at the sun.

What activities are recommended for children during a solar eclipse?

Children can participate in fun and educational activities during a solar eclipse, such as creating pinhole projectors or observing the changes in nature during the eclipse. It is important to supervise children and ensure they do not look directly at the sun.

What precautions should be taken when going outside during a solar eclipse?

When going outside during a solar eclipse, it is important to wear special eclipse glasses or use indirect viewing methods to avoid looking directly at the sun. It is also recommended to wear sunscreen and protective clothing to prevent sunburn.

How can one experience a solar eclipse spiritually?

Experiencing a solar eclipse can be a spiritual and awe-inspiring experience. Many cultures have their own traditions and beliefs surrounding solar eclipses. It is recommended to research and respect the cultural significance of solar eclipses.

What are NASA’s recommendations for solar eclipse viewing glasses?

NASA recommends using eclipse glasses that meet the ISO 12312-2 international safety standard. It is important to inspect the glasses for any damage or scratches before use and to not use them for longer than the recommended time.

How can you create a homemade device to view a solar eclipse?

You can create a simple pinhole projector using a cardboard box or paper plate to safely observe the eclipse without looking directly at the sun. Instructions for creating a pinhole projector can be found online or at your local library or science center.