On Saturday, October 14th, a spectacular astronomical event will occur. The annular “ring of fire” solar eclipse will be visible from our geographical location in Central WI around 11:53 A.M. From our location, we will have the opportunity to see the lunar disk blocking less than half of the solar disk at its maximum obscuration.
The UWSP Department of Physics and Astronomy will be setting up three portable telescopes that are equipped with solar filters for safe viewing on the UWSP Colman track field. All members of the community are invited to join the fun. This event will take place from 10:15 A.M. to 1:30 P.M. The Department will also be providing a limited number of free eclipse sunglasses to visitors on a first come-first serve basis. If the weather is not favorable, the viewing will be cancelled.
We strongly advise everybody to avoid staring or observing the sun without proper protection! Failure to protect your eyes for solar observations like this can lead to irreparable damage.
If you would like to view the solar eclipse but are unable to receive a pair of provided eclipse sunglasses, an alternative way of viewing is a pair of No. 14 welder’s goggles. Be sure to inspect your eyewear before using them on eclipse day. You should not be able to see anything through them except for the sun. If you can, they will not protect your eyes.
