Solar Eclipse Open House!
On April 8, 2024, a total solar eclipse will occur. This post will explain what a solar eclipse is, when and where it is happening, and how you can safely view this phenomenon.
A solar eclipse occurs when the moons move between the sun and the earth blocking light and casting a shadow over earth. The three types of eclipses that can occur are a total eclipse, annular eclipse and a partial eclipse.
Total eclipse: when the moon completely covers the sun.
Annular eclipse: when the moon is closer to the sun, still blocking the sun but you can see a ring of the sun around it
Partial eclipse: the moon does not perfectly align with the sun causing it to only be partially covered.
This year Toronto will be seeing a deep partial eclipse of 99.56% magnitude, appearing almost identical to a total eclipse but not safe to view without proper protection. Meaning that for the duration of the eclipse viewers must keep their safety gear on.
Safety gear is used on the eyes and rest of the body. For the eyes it is not safe to look directly at the sun as it can cause severe eye injuries or permanent damage. Things like cameras, sunglasses, binoculars and telescopes are not sufficient protection from the sun. Therefore, viewers must wear ISO certified protective glasses to look directly at the sun (which we will be providing to viewers). Or they may choose to look at the eclipse indirectly using a colander or a pinhole projector. As we stated the sun will be very bright meaning viewers should wear protective clothing and sunscreen to protect their skin.
To know when it is safe to take your protective gear off, you should not be able to see any light through your gear. However, the moment you start to see light again you must immediately put the gear back on.
If weather permits, Toronto STEM School wishes to host an eclipse viewing at our school location 285 Eglinton Ave E. We will be providing protective gear for attendees, as well as snacks.
If any parents or students are interested in learning more about TSS, our programs and what we have to offer, we are having an open house alongside the eclipse viewing. Meet the staff, tour the school, and enjoy the eclipse!