Dangers to Earth during an eclipse??
Could an eclipse possibly spell doom for all mankind??
In a word - no. There
is no danger at all to the Earth from solar rays, cosmic cataclysms, volcanic or tectonic eruptions, or any other
eclipse-induced phenomenon that any self-anointed "authority" writes a book about. Eclipses have been
happening on earth for a VERY long time, and we're all magically still here.
The world didn't end during the total eclipses of
2008,
2009,
2010,
2012,
2013,
2015, or
2016.
And there simply isn't any chance that the 2017 eclipse will be any different from any of its predecessors: Cool to observe, and that's about it.
So STOP WORRYING!
Here is a link to a video about the 2012 Annular Eclipse - which was visible in the
USA. It contains references to the 2017 Total Eclipse, and is a very good layman's explanation which should dispel any ideas
you might hear about ANY eclipse portending "the end of the world"! As always, Fred Espenak is right on - and as many
eclipses as he's observed, he darned well oughta know!
It is true, however, that many people around the world have been observed doing some pretty silly things during eclipses
- out of fear, mis-education, superstition, or simply because of reasons unknown. We will be gathering some of the best
stories from veteran eclipse chasers, to share with you in an attempt to counter some of the absolute hogwash that is fostered
upon the unwitting public by misinformed (or downright deceitful) persons. It will be good for a laugh!
Meanwhile, enjoy the eclipse! Bring
eye protection, and
never stare at the sun if any part of its bright disk is visible! But please don't hide under your bed from the dangers
of "eclipse rays" or some other such hooey. You'll be missing the event of your lifetime!
