Get ready for a celestial spectacle on April 8th! As the solar eclipse makes its grand entrance, it’s crucial to prioritize eye safety. NASA warns against looking directly at the sun during the eclipse – no, not even with sunglasses or through a camera, binoculars, or telescope without a proper solar filter. The stakes are high, with some schools adjusting schedules to protect students from the tempting gaze of this rare astronomical event.
In Fairfax County, though the schools will stick to their usual routine, they’re not taking any chances. With the eclipse possibly aligning with school dismissal times, Fairfax County Public Schools (FCPS) are arming students and staff with vital knowledge on how to safely enjoy this cosmic dance, accessible through their website.
One elementary school is stepping up, ensuring every student gets a pair of solar eclipse glasses for an awe-inspiring viewing party, wrapping up just after the eclipse’s climax.
But the excitement isn’t confined to school grounds. Fairfax County’s parks and libraries are joining in, hosting viewings and handing out those crucial eclipse glasses, making this astronomical show accessible to everyone.
From 2:04 p.m. to 4:32 p.m. on April 8, Fairfax County will be under the eclipse’s spell, with the moon covering up to 87% of the sun at the peak moment at 3:19 p.m. FCPS is on a mission to educate the community on eye safety for this event, echoing NASA’s advice to use solar eclipse glasses that meet the ISO 12312-2 international standard. Remember, if those glasses are damaged in any way, they’re a no-go. And kids should have adult supervision during the event to ensure a safe and fun experience.
Don’t have eclipse glasses? No worries! NASA shares a DIY tip: create a pinhole camera or viewer from common household items. It’s a safe way to catch the eclipse’s reflection without risking your eyes.
The eclipse fever is spreading across Northern Virginia, with Arlington Public Schools providing glasses to students and other counties like Loudoun and Prince William promoting safety first, ensuring everyone can enjoy the eclipse without harm.
This solar eclipse is not just an astronomical event; it’s a community experience. So, let’s gear up, protect our eyes, and get set to witness the marvels of the cosmos safely!
