Solar Eclipses

[Sara]

Dear Optiboarders,
Few weeks back there was a solar eclipse in central and southern africa and I heard over a radio an optician in Zambia selling cheap sunglasses for viewing this solar eclipse.I believe he was cheating and many people have gone blind in Africa viewing eclipses with eyes not properly or correctly protected.
Your views and advises will be very appreciated so that I can inform poor people on correct ways of viewing eclipses.
Thanks,
Sara

[Corey Nicholls]

Sara,

My advice for what it is worth-

Watch it on TV!

Corey.

[Joann Raytar]

Follow this link: http://www.eclipseshades.com/

Are these what you are talking about?

Follow this link:http://www.skypub.com/sights/eclipses/solar/safety.html to read what an OD has to say about these filters.

Then again there is always the old fashioned way. Two pieces of cardboard, one having a small hole in the middle. Hold the one with the hole over the other and watch the eclipse on the bottom board.
;)

[hcjilson]

Sara, In a pinch you could cross 2 polarized lenses, hold it up to your eye, and safely take a peek.I think Mick Jagger had a better idea in '68 which was to charter a plane and watch it from 35,000 ft.There is nothing like a total eclipse for a new experience!
Best
harry J

[Sara]

Thank you all for your help,now I can better advise public on safe viewing of solar eclipses.
Thanks again,
Sara