Teachers advise precautionary viewing of the solar eclipse in April

PROVIDENCE, R.I. (WLNE) —  On April 8, 2024, a total solar eclipse will cross North America, and will be visible from Rhode Island.

The  Rhode Island Science Teacher’s Association is urging school administrators to work with their school community to plan for a safe viewing of this phenomenon.

The eclipse will begin at 2:15 p.m. and peak across Rhode Island at 3:29 p.m., where 91% of the sun will be blocked.

According to NASA, a solar eclipse occurs when the moon passes between the sun and earth and its shadow blocks our view of the sun. The sky will darken as if it were dawn or dusk.

All students and adults can safely watch the eclipse if they are wearing specialized certified eye protection.

Looking at the sun, even during an eclipse, without proper protection can lead to severe eye injury or damage.

Educators and other viewers are advised to view NASA’s safety guidelines.

Links to certified glasses, filters, and other resources can be found on RISTA’s Eclipse Resource Page.

The Fiske Planetarium also shared a quick video for administrators on safety precautions and eclipse information on YouTube.