Library Staff Directory
Posted Aug 16, 2017
We've been getting many questions about eclipse viewing in anticipation of the August 21 solar eclipse.
The biggest question: where can one get eclipse glasses? The answer is that it's a bit hard to come by glasses locally, as many organizations purchased or were granted a very limited quantity to sell or share only at programs. Libraries in particular had to apply far in advance to receive them, and few in the area were able to do so.
We've compiled a list of resources to help.
UWM Manfred Olson Planetarium
The Planetarium on the UW-Milwaukee campus is hosting a special eclipse day event, in addition to events prior to the eclipse. They do not take reservations for glasses, and have only a set number to sell each day.
The Sun's Disappearing Act - Thursday, August 17 and Friday, August 18 - 7:00-8:00 p.m.
- A live performance looking at how cultures around the world have experienced eclipses through history. They state that glasses are available for purchase at these performances.
- Complete information here: http://uwm.edu/planetarium/event/the-suns-disappearing-act/all/
Solar Eclipse 2017 - Monday, August 21 - 11:30 a.m. - 2:30 p.m.
- A community block party to celebrate and watch the eclipse. They state that glasses will be available for purchase at the event.
- Complete information here: http://uwm.edu/planetarium/event/uwm-solar-eclipse-2017/
View the Eclipse Safely
NASA and other reputable sources have widely shared crucial information about safely viewing a solar eclipse.
- Eclipse Glasses are only safe if they have the ISO logo and mention the ISO standard 12312-2. At this point, however, most vendors are sold out of glasses.
- Follow NASA's safe viewing guidelines here: https://eclipse2017.nasa.gov/safety
- If you can't obtain glasses, try one of these other methods recommended by the American Astronomical Society: https://eclipse.aas.org/eye-safety/projection
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