Solar Viewing Techniques and Safety

Adam Cole from NPR explains how to safely view an eclipse without damaging your eyes. He discusses the ineffectiveness of regular sunglasses and suggests alternatives like ISO-certified solar viewing glasses, welding masks, and pinhole projection methods. He also describes how to create a portable camera obscura and use everyday objects like colanders and mirrors for safe viewing. Finally, he provides instructions for using binoculars to project the sun's image safely. The video concludes with an invitation to learn more about eclipses and subscribe to the channel.

Why are regular sunglasses not suitable for watching an eclipse?

• They are not dark enough.

• They are too expensive.

• They are too heavy.

• They are not stylish.

Where can you potentially get solar viewing glasses for free?

• From a grocery store.

• From a movie theater.

• From a local library.

• From a gas station.

What rating should the glass in an arc welding mask have to be safe for eclipse viewing?

• No. 14

• No. 12

• No. 10

• No. 16

What is the principle behind pinhole projection?

• Using a magnifying glass to focus light.

• Using a small hole to project an image.

• Using a lens to enlarge the image.

• Using a mirror to reflect light.

What is a camera obscura?

• A special type of sunglasses.

• A type of camera lens.

• A darkened room with a small hole to let in light.

• A type of telescope.

What can you use to make a portable camera obscura?

• A piece of glass.

• A box with a pinhole.

• A darkened room.

• A magnifying glass.

Which everyday item can be used to project multiple images of the sun?

• A cracker.

• A mirror.

• A piece of card stock.

• A magnifying glass.

How can you use a mirror to project an image of the sun?

• By using the mirror to focus the light.

• By taping a card with a hole onto the mirror and redirecting the image onto a screen.

• By reflecting the light directly into your eyes.

• By placing the mirror in a dark room.

What should you avoid doing when using binoculars to view the sun?

• Using cardboard to create shade.

• Using the dial to focus.

• Pointing the big end towards the sun.

• Looking through them directly.

What is the purpose of using cardboard when viewing the sun with binoculars?

• To focus the light.

• To create shade.

• To magnify the image.

• To reflect the light.