[OzEclipse (Joe Cali)]

David,
You can remove filters from all gear 15s-30s before totality. Don't stare at the sun for that 30s. Some people leave the glasses on longer or wear an eye patch on one eye (Aaarrrrh) so their eyes are dark adapted more quickly for totality.

Your eye's will tell you. IMO, 15s before totality, the thin crescent is far too bright to look at comfortably. As soon as the Baily Beads start popping, it's safe enough to look. Between C2-2min and C2-30s I find it much more interesting to look at the umbra coming in from the west. One of the reasons I've located my observing site in a big open field not on the beach with trees blocking half the sky.

BTW If you are who I think you are, I still have that A4 envelope with an assortment of Prism parts for you. Could you remind Allan to pick it up next time he's in Canberra.

Cheers
Joe