Solar Eclipse

SHINE’s diary of our experience viewing the solar eclipse

20th March 2015

9:00am – The SHINE team arrived at the office, ready for a day’s work but waiting in anticipation for the wonders of the solar eclipse. Having researched the day before how to safely view a solar eclipse, the team were prepared with a high-tech pinpoint apparatus (see below). However, the weather was looking like it might cause a problem – no sun in sight and clouds everywhere!

9:20am – Having found an ideal spot to view the eclipse (vaguely locating where the sun might be beneath the clouds) the team waited…And took some fun photos of us using our apparatus.

9:30am – Various gaps appeared in the clouds and the sun was almost visible. It was exciting to see the eclipse start to happen. The clouds parted for approximately 35 seconds, in which time we attempted to use our eclipse-viewing apparatus. Unfortunately, the system didn’t work too well, possibly because the sun wasn’t bright enough…however, we did manage to get some pictures!

So although the clouds were in the way, we had a great time trying to view the eclipse. We can always try again for next time …in 2090!