Though we all have differences, there’s one commonality that has prevailed for all of humanity: we are all floating on a rock, flying through outer space at over a million miles an hour.
Thanks to the rapid advancement of technology in the past century, we can observe much more of the universe than we ever thought possible.
The scale and sheer size of the universe make it impossible to truly learn everything, but it doesn’t mean we shouldn’t try.
Here's what's happening in space this week.
The 2024 Great American Solar Eclipse
The new year has officially kicked off, and we're getting closer and closer to the year's most anticipated celestial event: The 2024 Great American Solar Eclipse. As excitement for this once-in-a-lifetime event increases, it's important to ensure you're prepared to view the eclipse safely.
Though the eclipse is still a few months away, Total Eclipse DFW is urging residents and visitors to secure their ISO-compliant solar eclipse glasses as soon as possible as there are concerns about a potential supply shortage.
On April 8th, Dallas-Fort Worth will experience its first total solar eclipse in over 100 years. It won't see another for over 300 years, so this is truly a once-in-a-lifetime event for many North Texans.
DFW is located in the path of totality, making it a highly sought-after destination to view the eclipse. It's estimated that over 1.5 million people will travel to the area to see it.
The founder of Total Eclipse DFW, Jo Trizila, warns of a potential supply shortage of protective eyewear, citing the 2017 eclipse where the demand for glasses far exceeded the supply.
"In 2017, there were 12 million people within the Path of Totality. In 2024, this number will more than double to over 32 million. The need for Solar Eclipse glasses is unprecedented," said Trizila.
A total solar eclipse occurs when the Moon passes between the Sun and Earth when the Moon is closer to our planet. This completely blocks the face of the Sun, causing the sky to darken.
Once the eclipse reaches totality, safety glasses are not required. However, in the moments before and after totality, it's extremely important to use ISO-compliant protective eyewear. Viewing the eclipse without proper protection poses severe risks to the health of your eyes.
You also may want to think twice before you order your glasses from popular sites like Amazon. Trizila says there's been an increase in fraudulent glasses being sold that don't provide proper protection to your eyes.
"It is vital to ensure that the glasses you purchase are from reputable sources listed on the American Astronomical Society (AAS) Suppliers of Safe Solar Filters & Viewers list to avoid potential harm and legal liabilities. Just because they say they are safe doesn’t mean that they are," Trizila said.
As we get closer to the eclipse, the window for securing safe viewing glasses is rapidly narrowing.
"If you want custom-branded or large quantities of Eclipse glasses, the time to order is now. This is a unique opportunity for businesses and organizations in DFW to make a lasting impression while ensuring the safety of our community," Trizila added.
To learn more about ISO-compliant eclipse glasses or place an order to get your own, visit TotalEclipseDFW.com. Total Eclipse DFW is an approved Eclipse Viewer Reseller by the American Astronomical Society.
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