Excitement is building for the much-anticipated total solar eclipse that will be passing over the United States on Monday August 21st, between 1:00pm – 1:30pm CDT. While South Dakota is not in the path of totality, onlookers will experience between 75% to 95% of the sun covered by the moon.
The National Aeronautics and Space Administration (NASA) wants to make sure that people who plan on viewing the solar eclipse keep safety in mind. The only safe way to look directly at the uneclipsed or partially eclipsed sun is through special-purpose solar filters, such as “eclipse glasses” or hand-held solar viewers.
Sunglasses, even very dark ones, are not safe for looking at the sun. If you have already purchased eclipses glasses or plan to, experts recommend going to the American Astronomical Society (AAS) Reputable Vendors of Solar Filters & Viewers page for a list of manufacturers and authorized dealers of eclipse glasses verified to be compliant with the ISO 12312-2 international safety standard.
This rare event may only occur once or twice in a lifetime, with the next solar eclipse taking place in April 2024 over South Central to North Eastern parts of the U.S. Many people are making a priority not to miss this occurrence. For information on the upcoming eclipse and viewing safety, click here.
If you are unable to view the eclipse due to weather or being stuck inside, NASA will be live streaming the event.
