Get the most out of the #Eclipse2017 experience

The long-awaited event is bringing hopeful eclipse-watchers from all over the world flocking to the area and are ready for August 21, 2017.

After NASA named Idaho Falls one of the official observation sites for the eclipse, there is no question this is the place to be when it happens.

A Wyoming author has written a guide book on how to get the most out of your eclipse experience.

With Idaho and Wyoming being among the 14 states able view the total eclipse, the number of tourists is expected to skyrocket between 50,000 and 500,000 people.

One man has found a way to make it easier for tourists to be able to experience the eclipse as well as survive the region.

It is more than just looking up, said Aaron Linsdau, motivational speaker and author of “Jackson Hole Total Eclipse Guide”.

The book has a commemorative section so that you may record what happened during your time experiencing the eclipse.

“This is a spectacular experience and it’s truly and once-in-a-lifetime over Grand Teton and Idaho Falls. It’s a unique experience for generations of people to come from,” Linsdau said.

The book covers things from photography, viewing tips, where to go to see the eclipse and even animal safety.

Since its release in February, Linsdau has sold nearly 600 copies of the eclipse guide.

Law enforcement around the region is also preparing for the event.

“A great influx of people is coming in from other states to our area, so understanding those medical emergencies that we may encounter, plus the need the need to organize our ambulances and our EMT’s and paramedics in the region,” Idaho Falls Fire Chief Dave Hanneman said.

The last time there was an eclipse was in 2012.

Linsdau was in San Diego at the time and explains a critical lesson he learned.

“You have to have a filter on the very front of your camera to be safe. I didn’t have a solar filter in front of my lens and I made the big mistake. Fortunately, I didn’t damage my eyes,” Linsdau said.

The lens acted like a magnifying glass to the sun and the beams fried the insides of the camera. In his guide, Linsdau explains how to properly film the eclipse and what types of filters to use.

“Wyoming and Idaho are full of dangerous animals. They’re spectacular and beautiful people want to come and have a good time with them,” Linsdau said. “People say, ‘Gosh, bear spray is expensive.’ It’s kind of grisly but the quote I use is, ‘How much does it cost to get your face sewn back on after a bear attack?'”

The next total solar eclipse in North America will be on April 8, 2024. That year, total solar eclipse will go on a path from Mexico, Texas and Canada. The next total eclipse in this area will be back in the year 2252.

Jackson Hole Total Eclipse Guide: Commemorative Official Guidebook is available on Amazon, Barnes & Noble and any local bookstores around Jackson, Wyoming.

If you order the book on Linsdau’s website, you will receive the appropriate eclipse glasses with your order and an autograph from Linsdau!

Aaron Linsdau is also the second American to ski alone to the South Pole. In his first book, Arctic Tears, Linsdau shares his journey from skiing to the coast of Antarctica to the South Pole and back, without aid or support; solo.

To connect with Aaron Linsdau on social media, click here and for his website, click here.