The Malone Central School District is thrilled to announce the upcoming celestial event: the total solar eclipse on Monday, April 8. The solar eclipse starts at 2:07 p.m. and ends at 4:33 p.m., with totality lasting from 3:20 p.m. to 3:23 p.m. In total, this phenomenon will last two hours and 26 minutes.
While eclipses aren't necessarily rare, the opportunity to witness one from a specific location is indeed a once-in-a-lifetime event. As we prepare for this event, safety is important. Here are some safety tips provided by the American Astronomical Society for students during the solar eclipse:
1. Use Proper Eye Protection: Never look directly at the sun without certified solar viewing glasses or other approved solar filters. Regular sunglasses are insufficient for eye protection during an eclipse. Always inspect your solar glasses before use; if scratched, punctured, torn, or otherwise damaged, discard it. Read and follow any instructions printed on or packaged with the filter. (We will be distributing glasses to all students and staff on March 26.)
2. Watch Safely: Utilize pinhole projectors or solar viewing glasses to observe the eclipse indirectly. These methods enable safe viewing without risking eye damage. Stand still and cover your eyes with your eclipse glasses before looking up at the bright Sun.
3. Avoid Cameras and Unfiltered Devices: Do not use cameras, binoculars, or telescopes to view the eclipse without appropriate solar filters, as this can cause permanent eye damage.
4. Supervision is Key: Ensure adequate supervision during eclipse viewing to ensure adherence to safety protocols and avoid unnecessary risks.
By following these safety tips, everyone can enjoy the spectacle of the total solar eclipse while safeguarding their vision.
Experiencing such a rare event firsthand can spark a lifelong passion for science and exploration. The decision by the Malone Central School District to close for the day.
Please note: Malone CSD will be closed on April 8, with no school for students
As we prepare to witness this remarkable event, let's seize the opportunity to inspire the next generation of scientists, astronomers, and explorers.
Click the following link for additional information on proper viewership from the Adirondack Sky Center & Observatory:
[Solar Viewing Safety] https://www.adirondackskycenter.org/TotalityInTupper/about-solar-eclipses/solar-viewing-safety