How to Safely Watch a Solar Eclipse

  • Released Wednesday, June 21st, 2017
  • Updated Wednesday, May 3rd, 2023 at 1:47PM
  • ID: 12637

It is never safe to look directly at the sun's rays – even if the sun is partly obscured. When watching a partial eclipse you must wear eclipse glasses at all times if you want to face the sun, or use an alternate indirect method. This also applies during a total eclipse up until the time when the sun is completely and totally blocked.


During the short time when the moon completely obscures the sun – known as the period of totality – it is safe to look directly at the star, but it's crucial that you know when to take off and put back on your glasses.


First and foremost: Check for local information on timing of when the total eclipse will begin and end. NASA's page of eclipse times is a good place to start.


Second: The sun also provides important clues for when totality is about to start and end.


Learn more at https://eclipse2017.nasa.gov


Find more videos about the solar ecilpse on the Sun Eclipse 2017 gallery page.

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Credits

Please give credit for this item to: NASA's Goddard Space Flight Center

Music Credit: Killer Tracks


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