Solar Eclipse

Eat Your Heart Out Bonnie Tyler

If it were still the Middle Ages, some throughout the northern and eastern reaches of the world might think today is the apocalypse. Not because today is the end of the world, but rather because today there will be a weird natural phenomenon. We’re not celebrating a zany holiday, but we are celebrating today’s Solar Eclipse.

Luckily, unlike some people living a millennium ago, we know there’s a scientific cause behind solar eclipses and that it is not indicative of the end of days. Solar eclipses occur when a New Moon’s shadow falls on the Earth, subsequently eclipsing the sun (not to be confused with occulting). An eclipse can be total, annular, hybrid or partial. If you’re lucky enough to experience today’s interesting occurrence just remember one thing: do not stare into the sun! You might be tempted but don’t, not even if you’re wearing sunglasses. Just because the sun is partially covered and appears to be giving off less light does not mean it is giving off less energy. You see, the sun is covered and thus darker so your pupils dilate; however the sun is still radiating the same amount of intense visible UV rays and energy. Your enlarged pupils are taking in way more sun that they can handle if you stare which can lead to serious retina damage. However, if you have eclipse glasses, stare away!