KTNV (LAS VEGAS) — In a rare phenomenon, the Las Vegas valley will be treated to the annular solar eclipse on Saturday, Oct. 14, which scientists call the "Ring of Fire."
During the eclipse, the moon will pass over the sun and create a visible ring that won't be visible again until 2046. The National Weather Service projects the eclipse to be seen in Las Vegas from 8:08 a.m. to 10:54 a.m. but will be 80 to 85% visible while passing over at 9:26 a.m.
Experts are reminding solar gazers to never look directly at an eclipse with the naked eye since the ultraviolet rays can cause damage and destroy cells in your retina.
“If you have solar-approved glasses, you can wear those,” said Nicholeen Viall-Kepko, an astrophysicist with NASA. “You can also through a pinhole camera.”
Clark County Public Libraries are providing glasses for the eclipse, though officials say supplies are "first come, first served" and dwindling fast. If you're interested in receiving a pair, reach out to the closest library to see if you can grab a pair!
According to the U.S. Forest Service, if you're planning on heading to public lands to view the eclipse, you should also check the weather forecast, bring food and water, wear comfortable shoes, a hat, and sunscreen, a map of the area you're visiting in case you lose cell service, and a bag for your trash.
NASA is currently tracking the path of the annular solar eclipse and plans to stream the event live online.
