Don't Look at the Sun August 21

On August 21, we'll have an opportunity to witness the first coast to coast solar eclipse in the United States since 1918, and the first total solar eclipse exclusive to the US since 1776.

Asheville lies in a unique location, as 99% of the sun will be obscured.

Beginning at 1 pm, Asheville will darken as the first sliver of the moon begins its traverse across the sun. At 2:37 pm, the moon will cover 99% of the sun, making Asheville significantly darker. Finally, by 4 pm, the last sliver of the moon will pass across the sun.

Please plan ahead if you’re going to watch the eclipse. If you plan to use eclipse glasses, please check their safety and authenticity to ensure they meet basic proper safety viewing standards.
 
Eclipse glasses should meet all the following criteria:

• Have certification information with a designated ISO 12312-2 international standard
• Have the manufacturer’s name and address printed somewhere on the product
• Not be used if they are older than three years, or have scratched or wrinkled lenses
• Do not use homemade filters or ordinary sunglasses -- not even very dark ones – because they are not safe for looking directly at the sun

When the moon completely blocks the sun’s face – for up to 2 minutes, 40 seconds – it will turn day into night and make visible the otherwise hidden solar corona, the sun’s outer atmosphere which one of nature’s most awesome sights. Bright stars and planets will become visible as well.

For more information about the eclipse, check out these sites:

• eclipse2017.nasa.gov
• eclipse2017.org
• greatamericaneclipse.com