Monday, April 8th, America will hold a memorable historical occurrence–a total solar eclipse. A total solar eclipse is a very rare celestial event in which the moon passes directly in between the sun and the Earth. This causes North America to experience what looks like a sunset immediately into a sunrise over the course of a few minutes. The stars emerge into our vision and the sky goes dark, captivating all who get to experience it. New England is very fortunate as we are in the “path of totality” where we can view the eclipse at over 90%.
While beautifully fascinating, watching this phenomenon with the naked eye is, to say the least, not suggested. The sun rays that peak out from behind the moon are strong enough that staring at them directly causes retinal burns. This damages the cells in the retina and can cause blindness. However, this event is too remarkable to miss, especially taking place during the hours of after school events. There lies the question: how are Woodland students and staff able to experience it, while still keeping their vision intact?
As two of Woodland’s neighboring towns, Oxford and Seymour are holding single-session days, Woodland plans to not only stay open the entire day but also keep all scheduled sporting events and afterschool activities. Principal Kurt Ogren encourages this as it is a great learning opportunity, especially for the students who are more scientifically driven
“Viewing the eclipse is a great learning experience for everyone. I know our science teachers and science-minded students are especially charged up about the upcoming eclipse,” said Ogren.
This privilege comes from the administrators’ trust in the students. Woodland’s Athletic Director Chris Daley shares the same opinion on the event.
“There is no imminent risk from an eclipse other than people will naturally want to look up at the sun,” said Dailey.
He believes that this event is none other than a distraction, not a danger or hazard for the athletes. The only notable disruption is a re-scheduling of the Woodland vs. Oxford golf match due to Oxford prohibiting after school athletics on this day. Other than that, all games, practices, meets, and matches will continue as arranged.
“For safety measures, we have advised people ‘Don’t stare at the sun’,” said Dailey.
This is the most necessary precaution, however the district is also providing students and staff with glasses that allow individuals to view the eclipse without any consequences.
Superintendent Michael Yamin has made sure to supply everyone with these special glasses in order to enhance the experience along with ensuring the safety of our community.
The eclipse will last from approximately 2:12 pm to 4:37 pm with a maximum view at 3:26 pm where the sun is 92% covered, which will be the darkest point. This will only last about five minutes. Aside from that specific moment, all times before and after that will be very similar to experiencing a normal sunset or sunrise. The period in which the sky is certainly dimming, although there is plenty enough sunlight to safely continue all events.
We are very lucky to be able to experience this celestial phenomenon, especially alongside our peers in the middle of our events. So be careful, do not miss it, and most importantly, protect your eyes!
