How to Make the Best Out of This Rare Solar Event!

If you haven’t been keeping up with your social media, the news, science, or astrology of any sort, then perhaps you might not be too aware of the incredible thing that’s about to happen right above our heads. In a week from today, we’ll be graced with the magnificence of space and time as the paths of both the sun and moon simultaneously cross each other’s path. The solar eclipse is a sight to see and Barefoot Campus Outfitter is commemorating the event with our unique and super cute solar eclipse custom t-shirts. Before you get back to shopping around on our site, be sure to inform yourself on this insane and rare solar event right here on our blog!

What is this Eclipse You Speak of?

Assuming you’re well aware of what the sun and the moon are and how they circumnavigate through the solar system and around the Earth, you’ve probably wondered what happens when the two celestial bodies cross paths. When the two meet while orbiting, the moon effectively blocks the sunlight and momentarily portrays what looks like a black hole surrounded by a thin ring of light. That, my dear earthling, is a solar eclipse, and this sick event is happening in our very own country!

When Can I Get in On This Awesomeness?

Like our college shirts and apparel company said, next week. On August 21st, 2017, the moon will block the light of the sun in a rare, but awesome, sequence that travels through the United States. Depending on the area in which you plan to view the eclipse, the time of totality, or when the moon fully blocks the sun, will vary. For example, if you’re on the west coast towards Oregon, the eclipse will reach totality at 10:19 A.M. PDT. Times vary depending on the the time zone that you’re located in, so make sure to check the list of times that NASA lists on their website.

Where Do My Friends and I Road Trip To?

The solar eclipse will be partially visible in most parts of the contiguous United States. However, in order to see totality, you might need to pack up the car and take a road trip, which doesn’t seem too unfortunate if you ask us! The path of total visibility begins up in Madras, Oregon and travels in a diagonal line towards Columbia, South Carolina (shoutout to our Gamecocks). Some states where you could witness totality in all of its glory include Idaho, Wyoming, Kentucky, Georgia, and South Carolina. For a list of cities and a map of the eclipse, be sure to look back on NASA’s webpage regarding cities and times when totality is reached! If you have extra room in your car, we’d love to join you!

Any Special Instructions I Should Follow?

We’re hoping that you know better by now than to stare straight into the sun. While it might seem sensical that since the moon is essentially blocking the rays, you can look at the eclipse directly. However, you absolutely should not unless it’s at totality. When viewing the solar eclipse, it’s highly recommended that you wear a pair of special glasses, especially when it’s partially covered. Also note that these special glasses are not sunglasses, but rather glasses with lenses composed so that your eyes won’t become damaged by the powerful rays of the sun. Additionally, peering through a telescope or binoculars without any sort of protection is a surefire way to damage those eyeballs permanently. You can find these glasses at many online retailers including Amazon.

Thanks for reading today’s post and we hope you’re as excited as we are! Make sure to make this special event even more memorable with an eclipse custom t-shirt from Barefoot Campus Outfitter! Have a great time celebrating the event and we hope to see you back here soon!