Dear Members of the Fordham Community,
On April 8, 2024, there will be an eclipse of the sun, visible from Fordham’s New York City location. According to the National Science Foundation’s National Center for Atmospheric Research, the oldest account of an eclipse was recorded on a clay tablet discovered in 1948 among the ruins of the ancient city of Ugarit, in modern-day Syria. Ugarit was overthrown shortly after the eclipse, a fate we don’t expect New York City to suffer next week.
The 2024 eclipse will begin in New York City at approximately 2:10 p.m. and should end around 4:36 p.m. Our viewing area will achieve approximately 90% coverage of the sun. The optimal viewing time will be between 3 and 4 p.m.
If you plan to view the partial solar eclipse in the New York City area, you must take precautions.
- Make sure to protect your eyes with ISO-certified solar glasses from a trusted supplier when looking directly at the partially eclipsed sun.
- Do NOT look directly at the sun during the event.
- Sunglasses will NOT protect your eyes.
- Use sunscreen with an SPF of 15 or higher.
Solar Eclipse Glasses
Beginning Friday, April 5, Public Safety will be distributing free ISO-certified solar glasses on a first-come, first-served basis at Room SL04 Lowenstein Center (just past the security desk) at Lincoln Center, and Thebaud Annex at Rose Hill. One pair of glasses per person, please.
All public libraries throughout New York City are giving away free eclipse glasses on a first-come, first-served basis. Additionally, free eclipse glasses are being distributed every day between 6:30 a.m. and 9:30 p.m. at Moynihan Train Hall—MTA Long Island Railroad ticket windows (421 8th Avenue, New York, NY 10001).
You can also pick up a free pair of “I Love NY” eclipse glasses at various New York State Welcome Centers, Thruway Rest Stops, and other locations throughout the state.
Following these steps will allow you to safely enjoy the view of the solar eclipse.
Sincerely,
Robert Fitzer, Associate Vice President
Fordham Department of Public Safety
