Unless you have been living under a rock you know that on Monday August 21st, a total solar eclipse will be visible for the first time since 1979! Below we will breakdown a few tips and other fun things you should know about a solar eclipse.
Fortunately for most of us, we will be able to view the eclipse from the comfort of our own homes. However, East Tennessee is expecting thousands of people who will be traveling in to see the eclipse. TDOT has put roadway projects on hold and are warning everyone that they are expecting “UT Football Saturday”, Bonnaroo, Bistol Race Day type traffic. If you have ever been to those you know how horrible traffic can be during these times. For those of you who haven’t, expect to sit still for a long time. For those traveling in, hotels and campgrounds are booking up fast, if not already completely booked for Eclipse Day! By the way, Tennessee has the 2nd highest population within driving distance of the path of totality. Either way, get your gas early and make sure to fill up your tank!
So, where is the best place to view the eclipse? Where will all of these out of towners and eclipse chasers be? For us locally it is easy – Sweetwater, TN is the ultimate destination for viewing totality. Sweetwater is expecting tens of thousands of people from all over the world and is even throwing a festival for all who make the trek!
Safety is key when viewing the eclipse, and we at The A-Team want to do our best to ensure your safety! DO NOT get fooled by some knock off glasses or other “so called” safety measures. Below we will bullet point a few things to ensure your safety!
- Inspect your solar filter before use! If they are scratched or damaged DISCARD THEM!
- Do not look at the uneclipsed or partially eclipsed sun through an unfiltered camera, telescope, binoculars, or other optical device.
- Supervise children’s use of solar filters.
- Do not look at the sun through a camera, a telescope, binoculars, or any other optical device while using your eclipse glasses or hand-held solar viewer — the concentrated solar rays will damage the filter and enter your eye(s) causing serious injury.
Now that you are prepared for the most anticipated 2 minutes and 19 seconds in a long while, when can you expect the next? After August 21st the next total eclipse will be April 8, 2024! There will be partial or annular eclipse will be in October 2023, but being annular the rim of the sun will still be visible, even more reason not to miss this opportunity!
This next little part is for the animal lovers in our audience. Your animals will most likely become confused and act a bit strange. Birds will most likely go to roost, cows will head to their barns, your neighborhood rooster may crow after the fact. Animals will simply think it is night time and will go a long with their nightly routines. Silly, yes, but funny? ABSOLUTELY!
Hope you all enjoy your eclipse, just remember our tips, and even through the weekend stay safe and drive smart!