Eclipse FAQ

Why do I need eclipse glasses? 

Looking directly at the sun can seriously damage your eyes. Staring at the sun for even a short period of time without proper protection can cause permanent damage to your retina. Ordinary sunglasses are not proper protection for looking at the sun. 

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What is a total solar eclipse? 

This occurs when the Moon completely covers the Sun, and the Sun's outer atmosphere/corona becomes visible. Total solar eclipses are rare, with the last total eclipse in Ohio happening in 1806! 

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What time is the eclipse?

Partial eclipse starts at 1:53 p.m. with totality starting at 3:08 in the Dayton area. We can expect the total eclipse to last around 2 minutes and 42 seconds. 

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Where can I get eclipse glasses?

We will have glasses to pass out at the event. Glasses for viewing should meet the requirements of the ISO 12312-2 international standard. NASA does not approve or endorse products. Glasses purchased on Amazon or eBay may not meet proper standards. You can view a list of distributors the American Astronomical Society approves here. 

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How can I prepare for this event? 

The Public Health of Dayton and Montgomery County recommendations can be found here.

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Additional resources: 

Eclipse2024.org

phdmc.org/resources/ohio-total-solar-eclipse

Brookville Library Viewing Party

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