![]() This means that the cells that transmit images to the brain are no longer functional. When a person looks directly at the sun, solar radiation hits the retinas, triggering a series of chemical reactions that can result in damage, or even destruction, of the photoreceptors in the eyes. The sun’s light is so intense that even a small sliver of exposed light is enough to cause irreversible damage. In fact, looking at the sun during a solar eclipse can literally burn your retina and make you go blind. Otherwise, you are staring directly at the sun’s rays, which pose numerous risks for your eyes. The only safe time to look at an eclipse is during the totality. This type of eclipse occurs when part of the earth is covered in a shadow cast by the moon as it passes in front of the sun. This type of eclipse poses no danger to the observer since you are just looking at light hitting the moon, not directly at a source of light.Ī solar eclipse, on the other hand, is quite dangerous to look at directly. Lunar eclipses occur when the moon passes behind the earth so that the sun’s rays are unable to hit it directly. The eclipses we are most familiar with fall into two main categories: lunar eclipses and solar eclipses. What Is an Eclipse?Īn eclipse is defined as an event where an astronomical object is blocked from view. eclipse (coming April 8, 2024) find out why it’s important to keep your eyes safe and never look directly at the sun. Before you start making plans for the next big U.S. ![]() However, while eclipses are thrilling astronomical events, they also carry potential dangers if you’re unprepared. The Augsolar eclipse that traveled across the United States saw masses of people loading into cars to keep up with the eclipse’s totality (the point when the moon completely covers the sun so that only the outermost parts of the sun’s atmosphere are visible).Īlthough eclipses of all kinds occur multiple times a year across the country, people seem unable to resist the excitement when one appears close to home. It seems that no matter a person’s age, the prospect of an eclipse - particularly a solar eclipse - brings about child-like excitement. People under the influence of hallucinogenic drugs, like LSD, have been known to find themselves mesmerized by the eclipse and unable to look away.Looking directly at the sun can permanently damage your eyes, especially during a solar eclipse. You could also damage your phone.Īvoid using recreational drugs during a solar eclipse event. You’re very likely to accidentally look at the sun while you line up your camera. It’s also not recommended to try to view a solar eclipse through your smartphone camera’s “selfie” mode. ![]() Viewing the sun through a telescope or binoculars, which magnify the sun’s rays, has been shown to cause the worst damage. Never view the sun through binoculars, regular sunglasses, a telescope, or a camera lens. Free eclipse glasses are often available at your local library prior to an eclipse event. As the eclipse date nears, the glasses may be harder to find. If you know a solar eclipse will be viewable in your area, consider grabbing a pair of solar eclipse glasses as soon as possible. The American Astronomical Society provides a long list of approved eclipse glasses and handheld solar viewers. It may be tempting, but you should never look at the sun directly during a solar eclipse without proper eye protection. Encourage them to wear a hat and sunglasses when outdoors. If you have kids, make sure you make it clear that they shouldn’t stare directly at the sun. Children may also not fully understand the consequences of staring at the sun for too long. Younger eyes may transmit more light to the retina. ![]() ![]() It’s important that your sunglasses protect your eyes from both UVA and UVB light.Ĭhildren are at a particular high risk of solar retinopathy. People who participate in water sports, like surfing, should also wear eye protection that blocks 100 percent of the UV rays from the water. On sunny days, make sure to wear sunglasses and a wide-brimmed hat. Since there are no effective treatments available for reversing solar retinopathy, prevention is very important. ![]()
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