Eclipse Observations: Plans and Experiences for the 2017 Total Solar Eclipse

A total solar eclipse is an intriguing spectacle that draws a significant number of enthusiasts each year. The 2017 total solar eclipse, particularly around August 21st, was a highly anticipated event for many astronomers, enthusiasts, and casual viewers. This article delves into the various plans people made for this particular eclipse and shares experiences from those who witnessed the event.

The Anticipation and Planning

The buildup to the 2017 total solar eclipse created a buzz in the media and on the internet, serving as a topic of conversation and a platform to share stories and plans. Many individuals and organizations started planning months in advance to ensure they would be in the perfect position to see the event. Typical activities include organizing eclipse viewing parties, traveling to locations within the path of totality, and participating in special events hosted by observatories or astronomy clubs. Others opted to stay home and watch live streams or coverage on television or online.

Personal Experiences and Observations

There were a variety of responses to the eclipse, from excitement to a lack of interest. For instance, one individual decided to stay at home and went about their normal routine. They mentioned having seen eclipses before and found it merely impressive for first-time viewers. The eclipse would only partially cover the sun where the person lived, mostly obstructed by clouds, making it a less dramatic experience for them.

Personal Routine: While they intended to stay at home for a normal day, water aerobics in the morning and a blood drive in the afternoon, they also planned to wear their Eclipse 2017 T-shirt, “I got mooned in Beatrice, Nebraska,” as a quirky way to celebrate. Their decision to stay in their current location was practical, but still, they were grateful for the eclipse experience they had previously observed.

For someone else, the mantra chanting to ward off evil effects and donate according to their zodiac sign was part of their spiritual preparation to the event. Advised by their guru and astrologer, they aimed to neutralize any negative influences from the celestial event.

Work-Life Balance: Another person was working in an office, planning to watch the event through a 1080p or 2160p video stream from NASA, ensuring a better viewing experience than trying to look directly at the sun from their location. This approach ensured their safety while still indulging in the event's wonder.

Central California Experience: For someone in central California, the eclipse would only block 60-65% of the sun, but the clear sky presented a chance to observe the event with a handmade viewing box, a simple yet effective method to project the image. They prepared a pinhole at one end of a cardboard box to make the projection, ensuring a clear, safe view without the need for special glasses.

International Perspectives

It's worth noting that not everyone would be able to see the eclipse in person. For example, someone living in England wrote in, highlighting the impossibility of seeing the 2017 total solar eclipse from their region due to its location outside the path of the eclipse. Nonetheless, they shared their experience through answering questions on Quora, engaging with astronomy enthusiasts globally.

Conclusion

In summary, the 2017 total solar eclipse on August 21st provided numerous opportunities for people to observe this rare and spectacular event. Each individual had their unique plans and experiences, contributing to the overall excitement surrounding the celestial phenomenon. No matter the location or the method of observation, the anticipation and the actual experience of the eclipse left a lasting impression on those who witnessed it.

Related Keywords

Total Solar Eclipse - The term used to describe the phenomenon where the moon completely obscures the sun from a specific area of the Earth.

Observing Eclipse - Refers to the act of watching and recording the total solar eclipse, often accompanied by educational activities and discussions.

Eclipse 2017 - A specific mention of the 2017 total solar eclipse that took place in the United States, particularly notable for its path of totality cutting across several states.