As the total solar eclipse is nearing, people across America are preparing themselves to witness the rare astronomical phenomenon, and if you don’t have access to certified eclipse glasses, the viewing is still possible with a pinhole projector made with household items.
Looking at the sun with your naked eyes can have serious consequences like permanent damage to your eyes. It’s of utmost importance to follow all the safety measures if you’re planning to view the solar eclipse on April 8, 2024.
How to make a DIY pinhole projector to view solar eclipse
The following steps using items found at home allow safe viewing of the solar eclipse. However, you’re advised strictly against using any other method or staring at the eclipse directly.
All you need to make a pinhole projector are a cardboard box (an empty cereal box works too), tin foil, printer paper scissors, and tape.
- Place the empty cardboard box on a white printer paper to trace the bottom. Cut the traced shape and place it under the cereal box.
- Make sure you have taped the cut-out firmly around the bottom of the cardboard box as the slightest moment of the sheet can disrupt your viewing experience.
- Next, cut out the two sides on the top of the cereal box leaving the center intact, so there’s enough space to look through one hole, while the light enters through the second hole.
- Cover either opening with an aluminum foil and use tape to secure the corners.
- Poke a tiny hole in the aluminum foil.
- Position yourself with your back facing the sun and look through the open end, to see the reflection of the eclipse on the bottom of the box covered with the white sheet.
The above method is said to be safe and approved by NASA. But, you should never look at the sun directly through the pinhole as the rays can still hurt your eyes.
Can’t find eclipse glasses for April 8? View the solar eclipse without ever looking at the sky by making your own pinhole viewer. #solareclipse #foryoupage #eclipse #stem #diy #science #museum #wichitaks #wichita #explorationplace
How to get free eclipse glasses
If you are unable to make the pinhole projector at home, you can still view the celestial phenomenon using eclipse sunglasses that are given away for free for the next week.
Independent eyewear company, Warby Parker, is providing eclipse chasers free eclipse glasses starting April 1 at 240 stores while the supply lasts.
Each family can get up to two glasses. If they run out of certified glasses, the company will be giving away free pinhole projectors, reports USA Today.
If you’re purchasing eclipse glasses from other sellers, you must ensure they pass the safety check. We have shared three simple tests to find out if the glasses are safe to view the eclipse.
We have also shared how to keep your smartphones safe if you’re planning to photograph the rare occurrence.
