Eyes to the sky! Why April’s total solar eclipse is must-see moment.
April 8, 2024 will be the last total solar eclipse visible in the contiguous United States for the next twenty years.
Hopefully you didn’t mothball that ugly Christmas sweater yet.
Turns out, it’s the perfect attire for viewing the April 8, 2024 total solar eclipse next week. Red and green colors work with the science of a solar eclipse, creating the Purkinje effect, and changing how viewers perceive colors. The phenomenon creates the perception that reds and yellows will seem to fade while greens and blues appear brighter during the eclipse.
Here’s what to know.
What is the Purkinje effect?
The Purkinje effect, named after Czech physiologist Jan Evangelista Purkinje, states “as light intensity decreases, red objects are perceived to fade faster than blue objects of the same brightness.”
“This Purkinje effect during the coming eclipse will turn the whole experience from just watching the sky go dark to a real-life science demo on your clothes,” said online retailer Solar Eyeglasses.
What colors should I wear during an eclipse?
During a total solar eclipse, the sky will darken, making colors look different.
Warm colors like red will be less visible as they resemble the grey surroundings, while green will stand out brighter.
Wearing red and green will have the greatest impact if large numbers of people dress in these colors, according to experts. This is ideal for group viewing or public viewings at venues like parks, libraries or museums.
What colors should I avoid wearing during an eclipse?
Avoid wearing neutrals like black, white or grey, as these colors will blend in with the eclipse’s shadow.
The total solar eclipse is April 8, 2024. To see when it begins and ends in your area, use our ZIP code locator.
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Daisy Hips is a science communicator who brings the wonders of the natural world to readers. Her articles explore breakthroughs in various scientific disciplines, from space exploration to environmental conservation. Daisy is also an advocate for science education and enjoys stargazing in her spare time.
