These earthly godfathers of Heaven's lights, that give a name to every fixed star, have no more profit of their shining nights than those that walk and know not what they are.

— William Shakespeare

TRANSIT OF VENUS

By Kevin at Fri, 06/01/2012 - 4:09pm

The upcoming Transit of Venus is getting a lot of press - if you are looking to purchase a solar filter or "eclipse shades" to view the event you are unfortunately too late and out of luck. All the vendors we've seen are sold out or backlogged until after the transit (largely due to the big solar eclipse that was visible out west a few weeks ago).

Number 14 welder's glass can be used 'naked eye' (but not with a telescope), though it will likely  be tough to find in a local welding supply or hardware store. Use #14 only! Never use anything less or unmarked welder's glass!

The transit can also be viewed by projecting an image with a telescope, but it can be dangerous for both you and your telescope. See NASA's Safe Solar Viewing Page. Please do not try to make your own solar filters! You eyesight is not worth the risk. Your retinas have no pain cells and can be badly burned without you noticing until its too late.

We will have solar telescopes and a limited supply of filter glasses available at our event at Riker Hill Park in Livingston - click here for details.

If you can't make it to our event or it is cloudy - it may be possible to view it online. Several organizations are making feeds available. See NASA and Sky & Telescope for links.