A Wisconsin resident recently shared how he stumbled upon a bag containing essentials for viewing the upcoming solar eclipse in his basement, setting him up for the event. The solar eclipse is scheduled to cast a shadow over several states on April 8, 2024, marking the first total solar eclipse across the U.S. since 2017. The eclipse’s path of totality will begin in Mexico and extend across various states before heading over the North Atlantic. This particular eclipse holds significance as it will be the last visible from the U.S. until 2044, making the event even more special for viewers. Phil, the Wisconsin resident, had purchased eclipse sunglasses and binoculars in anticipation of the 2017 eclipse but was disappointed by cloudy skies that year, prompting him to save the items for the next opportunity.
Phil decided to store the eclipse sunglasses and binoculars from 2017 after the disappointing non-event that year, inscribing a note that read: “Save for the 2024 eclipse.” Little did he know that time would pass quickly, and he would stumble upon the items again just in time for the 2024 event. He shared his discovery on Reddit’s r/FoundPaper subreddit, where it garnered attention from users online. Some commenters expressed relief in finding their own eclipse glasses from previous years, emphasizing the importance of having the right tools for viewing a solar eclipse to prevent eye damage. The key recommendation is to use eclipse glasses that meet the ISO 12312-2 safety standard as looking directly at the sun, even during an eclipse, can cause permanent harm to the eyes.
For individuals like Phil who may have eclipse viewing equipment from several years ago, it is advisable to ensure that the items are still safe for use. Older glasses used to have expiration dates, typically around 3 years, due to the materials degrading over time. Therefore, it is recommended to check the condition of any eclipse glasses or equipment that have been stored for an extended period to verify their safety for viewing the upcoming solar eclipse. With the event approaching, availability of certified eclipse glasses may become limited, making it crucial for viewers to secure their tools in advance to ensure a safe and enjoyable viewing experience while witnessing the rare celestial event.
The excitement surrounding the upcoming solar eclipse has been amplified by the story of the Wisconsin resident who found his eclipse viewing kit from 2017 just in time for this year’s event. The eclipse, set to cross over several states in the U.S., promises a unique viewing experience for those fortunate enough to witness the phenomenon. Phil’s story serves as a reminder of the importance of preparedness and the significance of having the right equipment to safely view a solar eclipse. As the event draws nearer, individuals are encouraged to check their eclipse glasses and other viewing tools to ensure they are up to date and compliant with safety standards for protecting their eyes during the celestial event.
Newsweek is dedicated to questioning conventional wisdom and uncovering connections in the pursuit of common ground. The publication aims to provide informative and insightful content that challenges existing beliefs and fosters a better understanding of the world around us. With a focus on diverse topics and thought-provoking narratives, Newsweek strives to engage readers in conversations that explore different perspectives and challenge established norms. Through its reporting and analysis, Newsweek seeks to promote critical thinking and facilitate a deeper understanding of complex issues, including upcoming events like the solar eclipse that captivate audiences and spark curiosity about the wonders of the universe.
