How to Safely Watch the Upcoming Solar Eclipse in Colorado

On April 8, 2024, North America will experience a total solar eclipse. The viewing path and timing vary, and some places will be able to witness the eclipse's journey and fullness better than others.

Northern Colorado will see about 65 to 70 percent of coverage, which is still really cool and definitely worth watching. In Fort Collins, the eclipse will begin at 11:29 a.m. MDT. A max partial eclipse is estimated to happen around 12:41 p.m. The spectacle in the sky will conclude by 1:30 p.m.

Eye safety is one of the most important things when it comes to watching a solar eclipse. Looking at the sun is always dangerous, so it's no different during an eclipse. Even though it may be dark outside, staring directly at the sun is extremely harmful to the eyes. Without wearing protection, it can cause temporary or permanent retinal damage.

Fortunately, glasses are available in stores and online that are specifically for eclipse viewing.

The lenses of these glasses are made with solar filters that block ultraviolet and infrared radiation from the sun during the eclipse. They also reduce the intensity of the light before it reaches your eyes.

Experts say these special glasses are the only safe blocking method for observing the solar eclipse. Using any other item, including your hands or regular sunglasses, is a potential danger to the eyes. This applies to any stage that the eclipse is in.

Do not look at the uneclipsed or partially eclipsed sun through an unfiltered camera, telescope, binoculars, or any other optical device. Doing so can cause injury to the eyes.