Tomorrow will be a historic moment for a lot of Americans. It will be the first time in 99 years that a total solar eclipse will be visible across the entire contiguous United States and the first time in 38 years that a total solar eclipse will be visible from any point in the contiguous United States. Although the eclipse will only be 75 percent visible from the Bay Area, excitement is still brewing for those eager to see this scientific phenomenon.

The Benicia Public Library will be hosting a free solar eclipse viewing event from 8:30 to 11:30 a.m. “Solar” coffee and donuts will be served, and CE ISO certified glasses will be provided for safe direct sun viewing. The library is located at 150 East L St.

Monday also happens to be the first day back from summer for all Benicia Unified School District schools, creating a unique learning opportunity on a natural event. Christina Moore, the principal of Robert Semple Elementary School, said in a message that the district and site principals worked together to craft safe teaching guidelines on the eclipse. Teachers have the opportunity to have students view the eclipse through approved glasses, have them view it inside on a live streaming channel or have them create an eclipse projection box where they can have their backs turned from the sun but view the shadow of the eclipse on a piece of paper.

Recess at the elementary schools will be adjusted so that the period does not coincide with the eclipse. Robert Semple, for example, will have its morning recess indoors. The document also suggested that teachers only take students out to view the eclipse for a short period, not the entire duration of the event, and that they must ensure that students do not look directly at the sun and make sure that the glasses they provide are approved by reputable science organizations. Parents will also be allowed to sign students out of school so they can instead view the eclipse at home.

Glasses must contain a label on the arms of the glasses that reads “Meets the Requirement for ISO 12312-2.” Wearing an unapproved pair of glasses while looking directly at the sun during the eclipse can result in permanent eye damage, and wearing regular sunglasses or goggles will not help. For a list of glasses that have been approved by the American Astronomical Society, go to eclipse.aas.org/resources/solar-filters. To view the eclipse online, go to nasa.gov/eclipselive.

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