DIY Tricks to See the Eclipse Without Glasses

DIY methods to view a solar eclipse can be both educational and fun. Let’s start with the pinhole projector, which is a safe and popular method, and then explore another simple yet creative technique.

Pinhole Projector

What’s Good: The pinhole projector is a classic, easy-to-make device that allows you to view the eclipse without looking directly at the sun. It’s safe, inexpensive, and a great educational tool.

Steps to Create a Pinhole Projector:

1. Materials Needed:

   • Two pieces of white cardstock
   • A pin or needle
   • Tape
   • A pair of scissors

2. Create the Pinhole:

   • Take one piece of cardstock and make a neat, round hole in the middle using the pin or needle.

3. Project the Eclipse:

   • Stand with your back towards the sun. Hold the pinhole card so that it’s facing the sun.
   • Place the second piece of cardstock on the ground, acting as a screen.
   • Adjust the distance between the two cards until you see a sharp image of the sun projected on the second cardstock. The sun’s image will change during the eclipse, showing the moon’s progression across its surface.

Cereal Box Viewer

What’s Good: This viewer transforms an everyday object into a nifty eclipse-watching tool. It’s particularly engaging for kids and provides a hands-on learning experience.

Steps to Create a Cereal Box Viewer:

1. Materials Needed:

   • An empty cereal box
   • Aluminum foil
   • A pin or needle
   • Tape
   • Scissors
   • White paper
2. Prepare the Box:
   • Trace the bottom of the cereal box onto a piece of white paper. Cut out the rectangle and tape it to the inside bottom of the box. This will be your projection screen.

3. Create Viewing Holes:

   • Close the top of the cereal box. On each of the short sides of the top, cut a rectangular hole near the corners.

4. Cover One Hole:

   • Cover one of the rectangular holes with a piece of aluminum foil and tape it securely. This foil acts as your projection screen.

5. Poke the Pinhole:

   • Use the pin or needle to poke a small hole in the center of the foil.

6. View the Eclipse:

   • Stand with your back to the sun. Point the foil-covered hole towards the sun, letting the light stream through the pinhole and onto the paper at the bottom of the box.
   • Look through the other hole to see the sun projected onto the paper. As the eclipse progresses, you’ll see the shape of the sun change on your makeshift screen.

Safety Reminder:

While both these methods are safe, it’s crucial never to look directly at the sun, even during an eclipse, without proper eye protection. These DIY viewers allow you to observe the event indirectly, keeping your eyes safe.

This guide aims to not only provide practical ways to safely enjoy a solar eclipse but also to inspire curiosity and a love for learning and experimentation.