April 8 Solar Eclipse

On April 8, a total solar eclipse will make its way across North America. Even though most of Michigan will not see totality, the sun will be about 99% covered in our area. Here in Eastpointe, the eclipse will start at 1:58 p.m., peak at 3:14 p.m., and end at 4:27 p.m. 

This is a very exciting event! However, when viewing a solar eclipse, it is important to take safety precautions to avoid long-term injury to the eyes – it is never a good idea to look directly at the sun. Here are some tips on safe eclipse viewing:

• Use eclipse glasses or solar viewers that meet the ISO 12312-2 standards. Do not stare continuously at the sun. Take breaks and give your eyes a rest.
• Use a box pinhole viewer. 
• Use a pinhole projector. 
• Use your hands to cast shadows on the ground. Cross your hands with fingers slightly spread to create a waffle pattern. Look down and you will see the spaces between your fingers project a shadow image of the sun in a crescent shape during the partial eclipse stages.
• Look at shadows on the ground, such as under a leafy tree, during the partial eclipse. You can see the crescent sun shadows projected by the spaces between the leaves.

Because much of this event is happening during school hours, several of our schools have plans to safely view and discuss the eclipse. Even if your child's class isn't watching the eclipse, they might still be outside during the eclipse time, as our elementary schools will be dismissing right as the eclipse is expected to reach its peak in our area. Talk to your child about staying safe and not looking at the sun without special glasses.

For more fun and learning about the eclipse, you and your child can check out the following resources:

• Solar Eclipse Observer’s Guides and Handouts (NSTA)
• Where & When (NASA)
• American Astronomical Society
• Live NASA Broadcast of 2024 Total Solar Eclipse (Youtube)

If you want to watch the eclipse with your child somewhere else, you can sign them out according to building procedures. If you have any questions about what your child’s school is doing for Monday’s eclipse, please contact them directly.