By Christian Thomas | Script Editor-in-Chief

Do not look at the sun during Monday’s solar eclipse. Do not!

The message of Virginia’s Department of Transportation (VDOT) is clear. Drivers need to keep their eyes off of the sun and on the road during Monday’s solar eclipse.

Drivers will be tempted to watch as the moon’s shadow washes darkness over much of the contingent United States, the first since 2017’s ‘Great American Eclipse’.

“Do not pull over and park on the shoulders or ramps of the highways to view or photograph the eclipse, choose a safe location to stop and see the celestial event, after choosing a safe viewing location, be sure to exit your vehicle cautiously,”VDOT said in a news releaseFriday.

The eclipse will begin on the Peninsula at 2:02 p.m. and end at 4:31 p.m. 

The coveted Bailey’s Beads effect during the peak will not be visible from Hampton, nearly 80 percent of the moon’s coverage should be able to be seen. 

At 3:21 p.m., the sun will resemble more of a crescent shape when the eclipse reaches its peak.

How to watch 

While the glimmering sun lurks behind the moon’s pitch-black silhouette, eclipse watchers will find it hard to take their eyes off of the rare sight. Eyewear is absolutely required to protect the eyes from the sun’s blinding rays.

While sunglasses may seem like a good choice, they do not protect your eyes from the harsh rays of the sun. 

“Wear eye protection throughout the entire eclipse: Whether you’re witnessing a partial or total eclipse, it’s essential to wear your eclipse glasses or use solar filters for the entire duration of the event,” according to VDOT’s release. “Never remove your eye protection while looking directly at the sun, even if it appears dimmed during a partial eclipse.”

Also, viewers should inspect their glasses for any impurities like scratches, pinholes or tears that could potentially compromise their safety.

Eclipse eye glasses are on sale for $1 at state park visitor centers and gift shops throughout Virginia.Viewers can also attach solar filters to their optical devices as peering through the viewfinder of a telescope or a pair of binoculars may result in severe eye damage.

For more information regarding retinal safety throughout the eclipse, visit The American Society of Retinal Specialists’ digital information guide.

Where to watch

Starting at 2:00 p.m., Pirates can ditch class and watch Monday’s eclipse on Bemis Lawn during Hampton University’s Town Hall Cookout. Class excuse notes and viewing glasses will be available for students in attendance.

Virginia’s Conservation and Recreation department released a comprehensive list of state parks and eclipse watch events for safe viewing experiences across the state.

In just a short drive, you can watch the eclipse and dabble in the celebratory events at York River State Park, Machicomoco State Park or False Cape State Park.

NASA Wallops Center is also hosting an “unforgettable” viewing experience accompanied by their thrilling multi-rocket launch event.

NASA’s live coverage starts online at 1:00 p.m.