While 2017 may not be just around the corner, it is never too soon to start planning for the 2017 solar eclipse. This is a very big event and the first full solar eclipse over the United States since 1979, which makes it a very special day indeed.
There are a lot of websites and blogs online that provide information about the 2017 solar eclipse. These are very helpful with planning and will even provide you with information about the best locations to view the eclipse from the east coast to the west.
Where to Be
NASA, the National Aeronautics and Space Administration, has a very detailed map of just where you will have the best chance to see the full eclipse, and where you will be able to see the partial eclipse.
The states that will see the greatest eclipse and the greatest duration, or the longest period of darkness, and Kentucky and Illinois respectively. The longest duration will be two minutes, forty and two-tenths seconds, provided it is a clear day with no interfering cloud cover. The path of the greatest view of the eclipse will be from South Carolinas arching up through Kentucky, southern Illinois, Missouri, the northeastern tip of Kansas, into Nebraska, Wyoming, Idaho, and Oregon.
Other areas of the United States from Texas to Maine will still see a partial eclipse of about 50% of the sun, depending on your specific location. The 2017 solar eclipse will even be seen in Canada and down to Mexico, so it will be a spectacular event throughout North and South America.
What to Have on Hand
To safely view the 2017 solar eclipse having specifically designed solar eclipse glasses or hand held viewers is always the best option. These glasses come in a wide variety of styles and options, and they can even be custom printed for schools, planetariums, private organizations or for communities to distribute.
It is critical to avoid using any type of telescope or binoculars to try to see the eclipse, as this poses the greatest risk of damage to the eyes. Also, be very careful of the “homemade” options in solar viewers and eclipse glasses online as they are often just as expensive to make as the commercially available glasses, and they don’t offer the complete protection to your eyes, particularly for children using the devices.
Planning ahead to see the 2017 solar eclipse will help you be ready for the big day. Remember to check the weather and visit the NASA website for updates and information.
