A total eclipse occurs when the moon completely overstakes the sun, meaning you can see the sun's corona, or outer atomosphere, which is usually obscured by the bright face of the sun. This will produce a number of unusual effects, including a darkening of the sky, confused animal behavior, a drop in outdoor temperature, strange shadows and the ability to see the stars.
A total solar eclipse happens when the moon completely blocks the face of the sun. People viewing the eclipse from locations in the “path of totality” will experience a total solar eclipse. The solar eclipse – including the partial phases before and after the eclipse – will begin at 2:05 p.m. and end at 4:31 p.m. Totality will occur at 3:18 p.m. and last about four minutes. During totality, the sky will darken, as if it were dawn or dusk.
When watching the partial phases of the solar eclipse directly with your eyes, which happens before and after totality, you must look through safe solar viewing glasses (eclipse glasses) or a safe handheld solar viewer at all times. Regular sunglasses, no matter how dark, are not safe for viewing the sun. Learn more about NASA's eye safety during a total solar eclipse.
UB will be providing faculty, staff and students with American Astronomical Society approved Solar Eclipse viewing classes. Visit the Solar Viewing Glasses webpage to view a listing of pick up locations.
