Ajouts Récents
A solar eclipse is a rare celestial phenomenon involving the Sun and the Moon. During an eclipse, part of the Sun is blocked causing partial or total darkness depending on your location!
Get prepared for the next solar eclipse by learning different types of eclipses, what you need to know to observe one, and find out where to purchase solar eclipse glasses.
Types of Solar Eclipses
There are four types of solar eclipses: total eclipse, annular eclipse, partial eclipse, and hybrid eclipse.
1) Total Solar Eclipse
This type of eclipse is the most commonly known. The Moon, the Sun, and the Earth line up perfectly to where the Moon completely blocks out the Sun.
The surface is not visible, but the Sun's corona (the outer atmosphere) can be seen around the dark Moon.
This eclipse is similar to a total eclipse, however, the Moon is at its farthest from the Earth. Because of this, the Moon does not completely cover the Sun.
In an annular eclipse we do not see the corona, but we see a beautiful "ring of fire" effect.
3) Partial Solar Eclipse
This type of solar eclipse occurs when the Moon, the Sun, and the Earth do not line up perfectly. The result creates a crescent shape of the Sun.
The size of the crescent you see can range from a sliver to a thicker crescent.
4) Hybrid Solar Eclipse
A hybrid solar eclipse is the most rare. It's unique because the eclipse changes as the Moon moves.
Depending on your location, it changes from annular to total or vice versa, and back. (This occurred in April 2023.)
Solar Eclipse Photography Gear
The Perfect Solar Eclipse Setup:
-
For Viewing: Eclipse GLASSES and/or a TELESCOPE with a SOLAR FILTER
-
For Photography: A DSLR/mirrorless camera with a telephoto LENS or TELESCOPE and a SOLAR FILTER
-
Useful accessories like a sturdy TRIPOD and INTERVALOMETER
Solar Eclipse Tips
View Safely
The most important factor in solar eclipse viewing is proper eye protection. Do not look directly at the Sun without glasses or gear specified for observing the Sun.
Find the Best Location
Make your way to the path of the eclipse to get the best view. Once there, search for a safe spot where you can settle in to watch the eclipse from start to finish.
Use the Right Gear
Not sure what gear to use for solar eclipse photography?
Take a look at our resources at the bottom of this page for posts outlining what you need in detail and why.
Buy Solar Eclipse Glasses
You can buy solar equipment to view the eclipse, but this can be costly and difficult to use. The most affordable option for observing a solar eclipse is solar eclipse glasses.
These glasses meet ISO 12312 2 requirements, which protect your eyes from harmful UV and IR light rays and block nearly all visible sunlight.
Consider ordering a single pair, packs, or kits.
Solar Eclipse Resources
Learn about each type of solar eclipse, and find more information about how to observe and photograph them below.