Best method
Start with the brightest nearby objects, then compare Solar Eclipse with the AR overlay.
Astronomy event guide
Solar Eclipse Guide: Safe Viewing and Planning
A solar eclipse happens when the Moon passes between Earth and the Sun. Eye safety is essential for every partial phase.
Quick facts
Use these cues first, then confirm the pattern in the AR viewer.
Location matters
Altitude and direction change with latitude, longitude, date, and time.
Alignment tip
If the phone compass drifts, adjust the heading controls until a known star pattern lines up.
View safely
Never look directly at the Sun without certified solar viewing protection. Do not aim binoculars, telescopes, or cameras at the Sun without proper solar filters.
What AR can help with
AR is useful for planning the direction of the Sun and checking your horizon before the event, but the phone camera should not be used as eye protection.
Plan the location
Choose an open place with a clear view toward the Sun’s path and check local eclipse timing before you go outside.
Planning around your location
Solar Eclipse timing and direction can change by location, so use the guide as a planning layer and confirm local event times before observing.
AR helps answer practical questions such as which direction to face and whether trees or buildings block the expected sky region.
For events close to the horizon, arrive early enough to test the view. A mathematically visible event can still be hidden by a roofline, hills, haze, or low clouds.
Safety and realistic expectations
Solar eclipse viewing requires certified solar filters for direct Sun viewing. AR can help with planning direction, but it does not make Sun viewing safe by itself.
A browser sky guide is best used together with local weather, horizon awareness, and common-sense observing safety.
Viewing details
Use these practical cues to connect the written guide with the live AR sky overlay.
Timing matters
Check local rise, set, and event timing before going outside because the sky changes by location.
Viewing conditions
A clear horizon, low clouds, haze, and nearby buildings can matter as much as the event itself.
Safety note
Certified solar filters are required for direct Sun viewing.
AR planning tip
Use AR to check direction and possible obstructions before the most important part of the event.
Frequently asked questions
Short answers for common skywatching questions before opening the AR viewer.
Can I find Solar Eclipse from a city?
Often yes if the key stars or object are bright enough, but haze, buildings, and light pollution can hide fainter details.
Why can the AR overlay be slightly offset?
Mobile compass readings can drift near metal, cases, cars, and buildings. Move away from those sources and restart AR if the direction remains unstable.
Does my location change the result?
Yes. The same object can be high, low, or below the horizon depending on your location and the current time.
Related sky guides
Use these pages to move from reading into the AR viewer with better context.
Use AR for planning, not eye protection
Check the Sun’s direction and your horizon before the event, but never look directly at the Sun or treat a phone camera as solar viewing protection.