Ohioans will experience a once-in-a-lifetime total solar eclipse on April 8, and Ohio 4-H has resources to help you prepare. With more than half of Ohio counties located in the path of totality and the remaining counties experiencing a partial solar eclipse, this is an event you will not want to miss.
What is a total solar eclipse?
A total solar eclipse is a rare astronomical event that occurs when the moon
appears to completely cover the sun, blocking out its light. Across the world, a total solar eclipse only occurs once every 18 months or so, but depending on where you live, it may be more than a century before another total solar eclipse passes through the same area again. For example, the last total solar eclipse to be visible in Ohio took place in 1806 and the next one won’t happen until 2099!
Interested in learning more about the eclipse? Check out this video to learn about the science behind a total solar eclipse.
Check to see if your county falls in the path of totality.
Remember to stay safe!
Outside of the brief total phase of a total solar eclipse, when the moon completely blocks the sun from view, it is not safe to look directly at the sun without special eye protection. Solar eclipse glasses are a great way to keep your eyes safe and Ohio 4-H has a few tips to help you use them properly.
Eclipse glasses can be safely secured on smaller heads with a ribbon or elastic band.
- Check with the American Astronomical Society’s list of safe suppliers when purchasing eclipse glasses and verify that any eclipse glasses or viewers you receive have evidence that they comply with ISO 12312-2, the international safety standard for solar filters.
- Do not use sunglasses or homemade filters as an alternative to eclipse glasses or filters.
- Do not look at the sun through an unfiltered camera, telescope, binoculars, or other optical device while using eclipse glasses or filters.
- Supervise young children to make sure their solar glasses or filters are being used properly. To be sure of a snug fit, try securing the glasses behind their head with ribbons or elastic bands.
Looking for more tips to keep you safe during the total solar eclipse? Check out Ohio 4-H’s Eclipse Safety Guide or watch this informational video.
Learn more about the total solar eclipse
A family demonstrates how to use solar eclipse glasses.
Are you a parent or educator looking for engaging ways to help youth learn about the total solar eclipse? Ohio 4-H has the perfect resources for you! Thanks to Dr. Cynthia Canan, Extension STEM Specialist for 4-H, the Ohio 4-H STEAM Design Team, and OSU Extension Publishing, a series of fun, educational activities has been created to get youth excited about the total solar eclipse.
Help youth understand the science behind a total solar eclipse with the “Small Moon, Big Sun” activities, or let them unleash their creativity by decorating their solar eclipse glasses or making an eclipse-themed bookmark that detects the presence of UV light. Discover these activities and more on the Ohio 4-H Solar Eclipse web page.