Today is finally the solar eclipse! While you have been hearing about this for what seems like forever, you may still not know exactly what it is. To help expand your knowledge, we at the Clog are supplying you with some basic tips and facts for this momentous natural phenomenon.
What is a solar eclipse?
A solar eclipse occurs when the moon completely covers the sun. This leaves the upper atmosphere of the sun visible, resembling something similar to a halo.
This year’s eclipse is the first the continental United States has experienced since 1979. While it cannot be seen in its totality in California, fans can travel to neighboring states to catch a peek of the celestial event. The eclipse can be seen in its totality in areas of Oregon, Idaho, Montana, Wyoming, Nebraska, Kansas, Iowa, Illinois, Missouri, Kentucky, Tennessee, North Carolina, South Carolina and Georgia. If you aren’t in any of those states, the rest of the country will experience what is called a “partial eclipse.”
What about Berkeley?
The eclipse will be at its maximum viewing point for us at 10:15 a.m. The sun will be obscured approximately 75 percent during this time. This will leave about a quarter of the sun exposed. Because of this, it’s also very important to have safety glasses when looking at the eclipse. Campus should offer some pretty sweet viewing spots, but here are some other options if planning out your day.
The Berkeley Public Library will be hosting a viewing party in the morning, supplying free safety glasses. The party starts at 9 a.m., so be sure to be there on time to grab a pair of glasses!
Lawrence Hall will also be live streaming the solar eclipse from across the country. This makes for a great alternative if the fog ruins the partial eclipse in the Bay Area. And let’s be real, this is likely to happen.
You can also hit up some hiking trails or other public areas that will give you a great view of the sun during the eclipse. Take advantage of these few hours as well, packing a dope picnic to share with friends.
Whatever you do, make sure to get your eclipse Monday morning!
