Photo source: NASA
If you are in the Western US, Asia, or the Pacific region, be sure to go out tonight to check out the annular solar eclipse. An annular solar eclipse (as opposed to a total solar eclipse), is where the moon blocks only about 94% of the sun, leaving a visible “ring of fire” around the edges. This rare event is something you may only see once or twice in your lifetime, so I’m excited to try my hand at taking photos of it.
Wondering how to photograph a solar eclipse? Here are some tips for taking photos of an annular solar eclipse. Use your camera at your own risk: Like your eyes, pointing a camera directly at the sun can burn the camera’s sensor. I’m going to call around right now to see whether sun filters are available (and affordable) at any local camera supply store. (UPDATE: Our local Home Depot and Lowes stores both had cheap welding masks available for $22. Seems a cheaper option than buying a UV protective lens. Also, that “welder chic” look is in, right?)
On that note, here are some tips for safely watching a solar eclipse (sunglasses do not provide adequate protection). I remember making these pinhole viewing boxes as a kid. Time now for a little arts and crafts…
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