Here's What You Can Expect From The Upcoming Solar Eclipse, So Prepare Yourself
The solar eclipse is one of the biggest events on Earth. I mean, it's not every day that the moon passes between the Earth and the sun, right? In fact, the last one happened nearly a decade ago. So, as an earthly being, it'll behoove you to understand not only why this event is such a hugely astronomical deal, but also what to expect during the solar eclipse happening on Aug. 21.
First of all, in terms of what you are going to see that day, it's going to feel a little bit like you are in the Twilight Zone. The sky will gradually begin to darken over the course of the day. However, if you are in the area of totality, the sky will darken as if it is full-blown nighttime, the stars will shine a bit brighter than usual, and the temperature outside is likely to drop a little lower than normal, too.
Crazy, right?
When looking at the solar eclipse, however, be sure to wear special-purpose solar filters or “eclipse glasses.”
Looking directly at the sun can damage your eyes and possibly even blind you. If you're looking to buy eclipse glasses, you're a bit late on this front, because most of the approved manufacturers are sold out by now. But you can create some DIY solar filters. Perhaps that could even be part of your arts and crafts solar eclipse viewing party, if you will.
Since the temperature will drop during the solar eclipse, if you plan on viewing it outside in all its glory, be sure to bring along a sweater to stay warm.
If you're wondering how long the solar eclipse will last, it sort of depends on where in the world you're located. The eclipse is expected to be visible starting in Oregon at 9:05 a.m. PT and the totality is expected to happen at 10:16 a.m. PT. This means you have roughly an hour to get your *ss outside and see astrology and nature do its thing.
But don't panic if you think you're not going to be able to make it outside to see the solar eclipse.
While I have to be honest and tell you it won't quite be the same experience, you can find places to stream the solar eclipse online.
This chart lists the times that you can tune in for the eclipse live stream, and NASA will have live coverage of the event, as well.
Regardless of how you choose to participate in the upcoming solar eclipse, there's no doubt that an event like this reminds you of how vast and amazing the universe truly is.
It kind of puts a lot of things into perspective, doesn't it?
