CIM notes that the solar eclipse, taking place on 12 August, will reach a solar obscuration rate of between 92% and 98% in the Viseu Dão Lafões region.

Given that “thousands of people will be looking at the sky” on that day, the CIM is promoting these awareness activities so that “the moment can be experienced safely and with a greater understanding of this astronomical phenomenon.”

Joint work

In partnership with the UC Exploratório – Living Science Centre of the University of Coimbra, “specialised instructors will be on hand to explain the characteristics of the eclipse, answer questions, and raise awareness about the importance of using proper equipment during observation.”

The first session will take place at the Mercado 2 de Maio in Viseu on the 28th, followed by the São Pedro do Sul Municipal Market on 29 July, and the gardens of Casa da Ínsua in Penalva do Castelo on the morning of 4 August.

These events will feature the “Hemispherium Viajante” (Travelling Hemispherium), an inflatable planetarium equipped with 360-degree immersive projection technology, which will screen a film specially produced to explain the solar eclipse.

The awareness activities also include “solar observation via telescopes and the distribution of certified glasses and informational leaflets about this astronomical phenomenon.”

Other municipalities

The Municipality of Aguiar da Beira is also joining the initiative, “promoting the distribution of certified solar eclipse viewing glasses so that the population can safely follow the phenomenon,” the statement adds.

João Azevedo, president of the Viseu Dão Lafões CIM, is quoted in the release as saying that the eclipse represents an “excellent opportunity to spark curiosity about science and bring knowledge closer to the public.”

“With these initiatives, we aim to provide an enriching experience that is accessible to the entire population and, above all, to ensure that eclipse viewing takes place in complete safety,” he emphasises.

The Intermunicipal Community’s executive secretary maintains that this collaborative initiative “reinforces CIM Viseu Dão Lafões’ commitment to promoting scientific literacy and fostering community-oriented activities,” while also making it possible to “bring quality science to the region’s municipalities through innovative, participatory activities.”

“Directly viewing the Sun without proper protection can cause serious, permanent eye damage. For this reason, the use of certified glasses or specialised equipment, such as solar telescopes, is essential throughout all phases of the eclipse,” CIM Viseu Dão Lafões stresses.