We are getting excited, are you? A good part of Jackson Hole is in the Path of Totality of the Total Solar Eclipse on August 21st. That means that there will be complete darkness in the valley anywhere from 30 seconds to 2 minutes and 33 seconds. This is a once in a lifetime opportunity!
We did want to post some guidelines to keep everyone’s eyes safe during the eclipse. The last thing we would want is for anyone to have an unpleasant visit to the hospital or eye doctor in Jackson. Furthermore, how would you look at all our gorgeous mountains and wildlife if your eyes were hurt?
After doing a little research, NASA suggested that you should use eclipse glasses or an alternate indirect way of looking at the sun up until the time of the total solar eclipse. After all, you do not want to burn your retinas!
The key is knowing when it is safe to remove your glasses. When the sun moves behind the moon, these flashes of light called “Baily’s Beads” will form on the moon. They will look like a diamond on a ring. You can look at the moon ONLY WHEN ALL BAILY BEADS ARE GONE!
If you are up near the Center of Totality which crosses near Gros Ventre Junction, you will have approximately 2 minutes and 30 seconds to look at the sun behind the moon. As soon as you see brightening on the other side of the moon, it is time to put your glasses back on. Shortly after this brightening, Baily’s Beads will show up on the other side of the moon.
Keep in mind that your pupils will expand in darkness. If you look at Baily’s Beads with your pupils dilated, this is where your retinas could get hurt. Please be mindful of the time and put those glasses back on before the diamond ring shows up.
After looking at the Total Solar Eclipse in the Path of Totality in Jackson Hole, you will have plenty to absorb. The Sleeping Indian will be to the west of the Eclipse, Jackson Peak will be directly below it, and the Tetons will be right behind you. Perhaps even our wildlife will come out to view the event!