Kaitlyn's Korner: Awaiting the eclipse

By Kaitlyn Delaney
Associate Editor/Photo Editor

Next Monday, April 8, the world will experience a solar eclipse. Many places within our own country will get the joy of experiencing totality.

A solar eclipse is when the moon is in between the sun and earth, whereas a lunar eclipse is when the earth is between the sun and the moon, therefore casting a shadow on the moon.

During a solar eclipse, the moon can almost completely block out the light of the sun, causing what we call “totality.”

Personally, I am very excited to see the eclipse. Anything space or moon related has always been a point of fascination for me.

Some may remember the solar eclipse in 2017, when the path of totality was relatively unpopulated, at least compared to this year’s path. Unfortunately, travelling to the path of totality in 2017 was out of the question for me.

This year however, it’s not only a possibility, but it’s actually happening. I will finally be able to experience everything a total solar eclipse has to offer.

This did mean a little bit of extra spending, outside of the cost of gas and travel. As a photographer, the urge to be able to photograph this event is STRONG, and just like our eyes, cameras and telescopes need special filters to keep the intensity of the sun from causing damage.

Thus began the hunt for what filters are needed for cameras, and then the inevitable spending of money. On the bright side, this will greatly expand my ability to photograph any astral phenomenon we may experience in my lifetime.

If you are planning to watch the eclipse, whether in the path of totality or not, make sure you have the special glasses made for these events. All Capital District Libraries will be handing out free glasses, along with the Delta Township and Grand Ledge libraries.

Some eyecare practices like Warby Parker and MyEyeDR are also handing out free glasses. Meijer may also have glasses available. If you’re looking in other places, look for ISO 12312-2 or IOS 12312-2:2015 on the inside of the arms of the glasses.

If you’re feeling crafty, or are striking out on finding glasses, a fun unique way to view the eclipse is to look up how to make a pinhole viewer. Whatever way you watch, if you watch, stay safe and have fun! I sure will!