How to watch this week's solar eclipse safely

The ongoing solar eclipse, visible from Ireland this evening, presents an exceptional opportunity to witness a rare celestial event. The phenomenon occurs when the Moon aligns between the Sun and Earth, obscuring its light. Although the west and southern regions will experience up to 98% coverage of the Sun, the eastern and northern parts of the country will see approximately 94% coverage.

For those planning to observe the eclipse, safety is paramount. Authorities have advised against direct eye contact with the Sun during the event. To safely view the eclipse, Sadhbh Leahy, a scientist from the Dublin Institute for Advanced Studies at Dunsink Observatory, recommends several methods. She suggests creating a pinhole viewer, using specialized eclipse glasses, or equipping telescopes and binoculars with a solar filter at the front.

Creating a homemade solar viewer is a simple process. One can utilize a cereal box, scissors, aluminum foil, glue, adhesive tape, a pin, and a sheet of paper. Those with artistic skills or families seeking activities during the summer holidays can follow a video tutorial to construct their own solar eclipse viewer. The expert further elaborates on the safest ways to watch the solar eclipse in the accompanying video.