How To Stay Safe In New Jersey During The Upcoming Solar Eclipse

The big solar eclipse that we have been hearing about is getting close now. The upcoming solar eclipse is Monday, April 8th and yes we will see partial eclipse results here in New Jersey. NASA Science defines a total solar eclipse as "A total solar eclipse happens when the Moon passes between the Sun and Earth, completely blocking the face of the Sun. The sky will darken as if it were dawn or dusk."

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For us here in the Northeast we will see approximately 90% coverage. Monday, April 8th between approximately 2:10 pm and 4:36 pm, with maximum coverage at approximately 3:25 pm that afternoon. So those are your times to view the effects but do it safely here in the Garden State.

So how do we view a total solar eclipse safely? According to Space.com, "Only during totality — when the sun's face is completely blocked — is it safe to look at the totally eclipsed sun's corona with the naked eye. At all other times, including during the partial phase of the eclipse, you must wear certified solar eclipse glasses to view the sun." 

Space.com posted these locations for proper solar safety glasses:

• Amazon: Celestron solar eclipse glasses
• Walmart: Solar glasses, binoculars and filters available
• Best Buy: Solar glasses, viewers, telescopes and binoculars
• B&H Photo Video: Single and multipack eclipse glasses
• Adorama: Solar eclipse glasses and filter adapter kits
• Target: Discounted ISO-certified solar glasses
• Staples: Solar eclipse multipack available

So plan ahead and be safe during the solar eclipse and make sure kids do the same as well. I'll grab a couple of "solar glasses" and enjoy the event safely. I am curious to see what 90% coverage looks like during a bright afternoon.