SOLAR ECLIPSES: Viewing Tips Read our top tips on watching eclipses safely Plan your viewing with our eclipse calendar

A solar eclipse can be one of the most spectacular sights in the sky. However, the Sun is a dangerous object. Our observing hints will help you enjoy an eclipse safely.

	If you watch an eclipse, make sure you do it safely

• Never look directly at the Sun. If you do look at the Sun (with the naked eye, or through a camera, telescope or binoculars) you may permanently damage your vision.
  
  
• During totality, it is safe to view the eclipsed Sun. But make sure you turn away before the Sun reappears. Even glancing at the 'diamond ring' is dangerous. You should never try to observe a partial eclipse or annular eclipse directly.
  
  More about different types of eclipse
  
  
• Eclipses can also be viewed safely through a pair of special filtering glasses. If you do use glasses, make sure that the pair you are using have been made specially for viewing an eclipse by a reputable manufacturer. Ordinary sunglasses are no good.
  
  

  More about how to watch an eclipse through safety glasses
  
  

• The best way to see an eclipse safely is by making a pinhole viewer. Here are some instructions to make your own.
  
  

You can be as adventurous as you like when you make your pinhole viewer

Making a pinhole viewer Take two sheets of cardboard, and make a pin-hole in one. Stand with your back to the Sun, and hold both sheets up, with the hole facing towards the eclipse. Experiment by holding the sheets at different distances apart until you see an image of the eclipse appearing on the second sheet.

Solar eclipses happen about twice a year, but not always in the same part of the world.

Find out whether there is an eclipse near you soon.