In much of the US today, we will see some (or all) of the solar eclipse. Solar eclipses allow for a glimpse of the sun’s corona—the outermost atmosphere of the star that is normally not visible to humans because of the sun’s brightness. If you are in the path of totality, the moon will completely cover the sun and you will see the umbra, the dark, inner shadow.  Those of us in Colorado will see the penumbra, the outer, lighter second shadow.

When watching the partial phases of the solar eclipse directly with your eyes, which happens before and after totality, you must look through safe eclipse glasses or a safe handheld solar viewer at all times. Eclipse glasses are NOT regular sunglasses; regular sunglasses, no matter how dark, are not safe for viewing the Sun. Be very careful not to look directly at the sun. Eye damage can occur instantly.

During the last eclipse, I found that using a colander provided a very interesting way to see the effect if you don't have glasses. Or make yourself a pinhole camera!

Apparently animals can become very confused during an eclipse, so if you are working at home, consider providing an extra cuddle. 

If you are interested in learning more, check out this video from Films on Demand about the last eclipse in the US. 

Be careful out there!