When the moon eclipses the sun on Aug. 21, 2017, millions of people across the United States will have every imaginable electronic device aimed skyward, from smart phones and video cameras to high-powered telescopes and sophisticated research devices.
But Terry Richardson, senior instructor of astronomy and physics at the College of Charleston, has made it his mission to ensure that everybody, no matter their age or financial means, has an opportunity to experience this historic event.
After years of trial and error, countless prototypes, a healthy dose of obsession, and nearly driving his wife crazy with building supplies and tools strewn all over their house and garage, Richardson has perfected a simple device for viewing the eclipse safely and affordably.
It’s called a Safe Solar Viewer, and you can build the whole thing, including shipping to order the lenses online, for less than $20.
Detailed plans of Richardson's Safe Solar Viewer are available at the following link: richardsont.people.cofc.edu/sa...