48 NEBRASKAland • AUGUST-SEPTEMBER 2017
Any tips for viewing the eclipse?
The only time you should be looking up without eye
protection is when the sun is totally behind the moon. Then
it's safe, and you should. Otherwise, use only approved
solar filters or indirect viewing methods. Never use sunglasses.
What makes Nebraska a good location to view the
eclipse? I've heard that the Sandhills are a particularly
good spot.
There are two factors. One is weather, particularly cloud
cover. Statistically, August in Nebraska tends to be nice and
clear for viewing. The second factor is the eclipse will last
longer the farther east you go – so we'll get a longer viewing
period than the folks in the Rockies, for instance – and the
duration of maximum eclipse increases as you get closer to
the center line. So the Sandhills balance good weather and a
nice, long eclipse. Plus, it's not a bad foreground, and there
are lots of open roads if you do need to hunt for a clear spot.
When was the last total solar eclipse in Nebraska, and
when will it next happen again?
We haven't had a total solar eclipse in the state since
1954, and we won't have one again in the next 50 years.
What time of day will the eclipse take place here?
Around noon to 1 p.m. You can check specific times at
eclipse2017.org.
During the partial eclipse, small openings – such as the gaps
between the leaves of this willow tree – will form crescent-
shaped shadows. The openings act like a pinhole camera,
projecting an image of the eclipse onto a surface.
The Nebraska Sandhills is one of the best places in the state – and in the country – to view the eclipse. Among its benefits are good
weather, long eclipse viewing times, clear views and lots of open roads.
PHOTO
BY
ERIC
FOWLER
PHOTO
BY
JASON
CHENOWETH
