On Monday, August 21, 2017, a total solar eclipse will be viewable within many areas of North America — reportedly thee first total solar eclipse visible in the continental United States in 38 years. There are lots of great resources available to help ensure your patients will be viewing the eclipse safely.
According to NASA's Eclipse 2017 website, anyone within the path of totality will be able to see the total solar eclipse, which stretches from Lincoln Beach, Ore. to Charleston, S.C. And anyone outside of this path will still be able to view a partial solar eclipse.
The solar eclipse will reportedly take about three hours, from beginning to end, as viewed from a given location. The American Astronomical Society offers a good map and chart showing the times that U.S. citizens will be able to view the eclipse.
As the only safe way to view an eclipse is through the use of solar filters or other ISO-certified filters, such as "eclipse glasses," or handheld solar viewers, eye care practitioners can be a first line of defense to talk to patients about the upcoming eclipse, and offer information via social media, newsletters and websites. To help, here's some available resources:
- The American Optometric Association (AOA) offers a number of resources on their website, including downloadable information sheet and infographic, and information on purchasing solar filters and eclipse glasses. And AOA members can download a free PowerPoint presentation and customizable press release for promotion in their local community.
- The American Academy of Ophthalmology (AAO) offers patient tips for safely viewing the solar eclipse on their EyeSmart® website. The site also includes links to information on creating a pinhole projector, and ways to view the eclipse online or at a local planetarium or science center.
- Prevent Blindness has created a new downloadable fact sheet and web page with tips on the best ways to view the eclipse without damaging the eyes.
- NASA has a variety of downloadable fact sheets on its Eclipse 2017 website, as well as activity guides, website banners and social media images.
And if you are considering making eclipse glasses available to patients, according to AAO, to date only four manufacturers have certified that their eclipse glasses and handheld solar viewers meet international safety standards:
And more than 2 million pairs of eclipse glasses are being distributed free through public libraries in the U.S. through the STAR-Net program. Click here to view participating libraries in your area, and click here to download a free 24-page guide to the solar eclipse.
Here’s to safe viewing of an amazing natural phenomenon!
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