As another total solar eclipse approaches, residents in Texas and Midwest states are getting prepared to witness this celestial event on April 8. While those in the path of totality will experience a strange and awe-inspiring sight as the moon's shadow falls on Earth, even those in other parts of the continental US will have a chance to see a partial eclipse.

Safety is of utmost importance when viewing a solar eclipse. It is crucial to never look directly at the sun without special glasses, even when the sun is partially obscured by the moon. NASA recommends obtaining safe solar viewers, which may still be available before the big event.

However, if obtaining special glasses is not an option, there is another simple and safe method to view the solar eclipse: using a pinhole projector. All it takes is a flat surface like a piece of cardboard and a pin or other sharp object to create a small hole in it. When the sun's light passes through the pinhole, it forms an image, which can be projected onto a flat surface like a sidewalk.

Traditionally, a pinhole viewer would create a circular dot of light on an ordinary day. However, during a solar eclipse, the image projected through the pinhole takes on a crescent shape due to the moon passing in front of the sun.

Interestingly, Mother Nature provides us with ready-made pinhole projectors. Simply standing under a tree during a solar eclipse can transform the small spaces between leaves into multiple pinholes, projecting a series of little crescent images on the ground. It is a unique and captivating natural phenomenon.

For those curious about the shape an alternative hole might project, a card from PUNCH (Polarimeter to Unify the Corona and Heliosphere) displays three different shapes: circular, triangular, and square. This card allows viewers to observe the unexpected shapes that the sun's image takes when projected through these different holes.

Whether you opt for a homemade pinhole projector or the intriguing PUNCH card, taking precautions and finding alternative ways to safely view the solar eclipse ensures everyone can witness this extraordinary cosmic event. So mark your calendars, find a suitable spot, and prepare to be in awe as the moon traverses in front of the sun on April 8.