Mark your calendars, folks! On Monday, August 21, between 9:05 a.m. PDT and 1:16 p.m. EDT, the sun will start to dim, and it’s not the apocalypse—it’s the Great American Solar Eclipse. This event will create a partial solar eclipse visible across the entire mainland U.S., Canada, Mexico, Central America, and even parts of northern South America. However, for those lucky enough to be in the path of totality stretching from Oregon to South Carolina, it will be a spectacular total eclipse.
But here’s the catch: a colossal influx of people is expected in the path of totality, leading to not just heavy traffic but also a lack of accommodations. South Carolina is preparing for an estimated 300,000 visitors in the capital area alone, so if you’re planning to go, better pack your essentials well in advance.
Now, let’s talk about a significant risk factor—the human element. Everyone knows that looking at the sun without proper eyewear can cause severe eye damage—like, possibly permanent blindness. Dr. Andrew Smith, a leading optometrist, warns that exposure to intense ultraviolet rays can lead to photokeratitis, a painful condition akin to sunburn on your corneas. You might experience redness, tearing, and that annoying feeling of having something in your eye. Ouch!
Moreover, gazing directly at the sun during a partial eclipse can lead to solar retinopathy, which inflicts real damage on your retinas. The scary part? There’s no safe duration; even a brief glance can result in irreversible harm. So, special eclipse glasses are a must-have. Sorry, but regular sunglasses won’t cut it, nor will peering through a telescope or camera lens.
Where can you score those coveted eclipse glasses? Your local library might be your best bet. Over 2 million pairs are being distributed across 7,000 libraries—check if yours is included! Science museums and state institutions are also good places for free pairs, so give them a ring before heading out. Retailer Warby Parker is even offering complimentary glasses at all their stores. Plus, local public health departments, astronomical societies, and planetariums might have some available. NASA viewing sites will also be giving away free glasses.
If you decide to purchase a pair, stick to authorized retailers. There are plenty of companies claiming to be “AOA Approved” on platforms like Amazon, but you need to be cautious. For a list of trusted vendors, the American Astronomical Association has got you covered.
For the DIY enthusiasts, you can create your own solar viewer! All you need is a box (a shoebox works great), some aluminum foil, white paper, tape, a pin, and a box cutter. National Geographic even shares a simple method for crafting a solar viewer using just two pieces of cardboard.
Remember, don’t look directly at the sun until totality. Once it’s fully obscured by the moon, it’s safe to peek without protection. But before and after that moment? Keep those glasses on. And let’s be clear: a cloudy day won’t save your eyes—don’t risk it. Avoid any “hold-my-beer” scenarios this eclipse. Because, seriously, an eye sunburn is nothing to laugh about.
In summary, the Great American Solar Eclipse is an exciting event, but safety comes first. Make sure to secure proper eclipse glasses, whether from local libraries, science museums, or authorized retailers. For more on fertility and home insemination, check out our other blog posts like this one on boosting fertility supplements and the Cryobaby home insemination kit. For additional guidance on pregnancy and fertility treatments, visit this excellent resource from the March of Dimes.
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