Hey Winefam! Monday, April 8th the Sun City is gearing up for a front-row seat to the total solar eclipse! Luckily for us, we are in the path of totality even if we aren’t in Waco. However, with such a grand event comes the need for a bit of planning and precaution. On April 8, the eclipse will start at about 11:09 a.m. Mountain Time, with the totality starting at about 12:25 pm, and the entire event concluding by 1:44 p.m. Mountain Time.
Here are essential tips to verify the safety of your solar eclipse glasses and suggestions for fun places to view the eclipse in El Paso:
Ensuring Your Eclipse Glasses Are Safe
1. ISO Certification: Genuine solar eclipse glasses are ISO 12312-2 compliant. Check for this certification printed on the glasses to ensure they meet the safety standards for viewing the eclipse.
2. Opacity: Solar eclipse glasses should be extremely dark, and you shouldn’t be able to see anything indoors, except the bright sun or an equally intense light source. Be sure to test them out while in your home.
3. No Damage: Inspect your glasses for any scratches, tears, or damage. Even a small defect can compromise the protection, making them unsafe for viewing the eclipse.
4. Manufacturer: Purchase glasses from reputable vendors or manufacturers recommended by science and astronomical organizations. The library is a great source as well as universities. Avoid glasses sold by street vendors, convenience stores, or those with no traceable manufacturer information.
No Glasses? Here are Reported Safe Ways to View
- Making pinhole camera Take a piece of paper and tape some aluminum foil to the middle of a cutout on it. Tape the aluminum foil to the square and poke a hole through it. Turn your back to the sun and watch the “reflection” of the eclipse on the ground through your pinhole camera.
- Using a colander and a piece of white paper All you have to do is take the colander and hold it above your head with your back to the sun and you will see the crescent shadows on the paper.
- Welders glass rated 13-14
- Watching NASA live feed available at 1 pm EST link here The safest way to view is even cameras need a special filter to photograph the eclipse successfully.
El Paso offers unique vantage points that combine natural beauty with the convenience of city amenities, making your eclipse-watching experience both enjoyable and memorable. Don’t get stuck on I-10 trying to view, if you don’t want to go to your backyard try to make sure you’re facing west in a clear area or the following places:
Fun Places to View the Eclipse in El Paso:
1. Franklin Mountains State Park: Elevate your eclipse experience—literally! With its high vantage points, you can enjoy a clear view of the eclipse without much light pollution. Plus, the natural surroundings make it an ideal spot for a family hike before or after the event.
2. Scenic Drive Overlook: For those who want a picturesque view of the city and the eclipse, this is the place to be. Just get there early it will get crowded. It’s accessible and offers stunning panoramic views, making it a popular choice for families and photographers alike.
3. Hueco Tanks State Park & Historic Site: Combine history with astronomy and visit Hueco Tanks. Not only is it a site with ancient rock paintings, but its wide-open spaces make it perfect for eclipse viewing. .
4. Any of the local libraries. Todo El Paso posted a cool one here.
Making the Most of the Eclipse
– Arrive Early: Choose your viewing location and get there well in advance to secure a good spot and set up.
– Prepare for the Weather: El Paso’s weather can be unpredictable. Bring sunscreen, hats, water, and snacks to stay comfortable during the event.
– Capture the Moment: Remember, regular cameras or smartphones require filters to safely capture the eclipse.
By following these safety tips and choosing a fantastic location, you’re all set for a remarkable eclipse viewing experience in El Paso. Here’s to a safe, fun, and awe-inspiring eclipse day Winefam! I can’t wait to see all the different photographs today.
Hoping your wine or your coffee is stronger than your kids xoxo
Cheers,
Amber-Nicole
PS: Stay tuned this week for Winedown Wednesday check out the last part of our ten part series here.
Meet the face behind CarbsNCabernet.com –Amber a devoted mom, wife, wine enthusiast, and advocate for balancing life’s pleasures with practicality. With a passion for sharing her journey through motherhood, she offers a unique blend of honest insights, humor, and relatable experiences. From navigating the chaos of parenting to savoring the simple joys of a good glass of cabernet, she believes in embracing both the mess and the magic of everyday life. Her blog is a haven for moms seeking solidarity, inspiration, and a reminder to enjoy the little things, one carb and one sip at a time. Join her as she uncovers the beauty in imperfection and the richness of daily living – all with a touch of wit and a lot of heart.
