Stay Safe: How to View the Total Solar Eclipse Without Damaging Your Eyes
A stunning total solar eclipse is set to captivate millions of people across Mexico, the United States, and Canada on April 8. Astronomers are urging everyone within the path of totality to witness this rare celestial event, but with a crucial caveat – it must be done safely. Sunglasses won’t cut it for this once-in-a-lifetime experience.
What is a total solar eclipse?
A total solar eclipse occurs when the moon passes between Earth and the sun, completely blocking the sun’s face. Those lucky enough to be within the path of totality will witness a total solar eclipse, where the moon’s shadow fully covers the sun. For those outside this path, a partial solar eclipse will be visible, where only a portion of the sun’s face is obscured.
Why you shouldn’t look directly at the eclipse
It is important to note that looking directly at the sun during a solar eclipse can result in blindness or disrupted vision. In 2017, a young woman was diagnosed with solar retinopathy, a condition caused by retinal damage from exposure to solar radiation, after viewing the eclipse without proper eye protection. Solar retinopathy has no cure and can lead to permanent vision loss.
Using certified eclipse glasses and solar viewers
To safely view the eclipse, it is crucial to wear certified eclipse glasses or use a handheld solar viewer. These specially designed glasses and viewers block out harmful solar radiation and protect your eyes. Alex Lockwood, strategic content and integration lead for the Science Mission Directorate at NASA headquarters, emphasizes the importance of obtaining safe certified solar eclipse glasses.
Sunglasses are not a substitute for eclipse glasses or solar viewers. Eclipse glasses are made of black polymer or resin infused with carbon particles, which block nearly all visible, infrared, and ultraviolet light. Sunglasses, on the other hand, do not block infrared radiation.
Where to find safe eclipse glasses and filters
For safe manufacturers and resellers of eclipse glasses and filters for optical devices, including cameras and smartphones, the American Astronomical Society has curated a list. It is essential to ensure that the glasses or filters you use comply with the ISO 12312-2 safety standard.
Alternative methods for indirect viewing
If you don’t have certified glasses on hand, there are alternative methods for indirectly viewing the eclipse. One option is to create a pinhole projector by punching a hole through an index card. By standing with your back to the sun and holding up the card, the pinhole will project an image of the crescent or ring-shaped sun onto the ground or other surfaces.
Other everyday items that can serve as pinhole projectors include colanders, straw hats, or anything with small holes. You can even use your hands by spacing out your fingers and crossing them over each other to create a waffle pattern. The small spaces between leaves on a leafy tree can also create patterns of the eclipse phase on the ground.
Remember to stay safe
Whether you are using certified eclipse glasses, solar viewers, or indirect viewing methods, it is crucial to follow safety guidelines. Always put on your eclipse glasses before looking up at the sun and turn away from the sun before removing them. Keep a close eye on children wearing eclipse glasses to ensure they don’t remove them while looking at the sun.
If you wear eyeglasses, keep them on and put eclipse glasses over them or use a handheld viewer in front of them. Avoid looking at the sun through unfiltered optical devices like camera lenses, telescopes, or binoculars while wearing eclipse glasses or using a handheld solar viewer.
Additionally, welding filters with a shade number of 12 or higher can be used for safe viewing. However, be aware that the sun will appear green instead of its usual yellowish-orange or white. Auto-darkening or adjustable welding helmets are not recommended for eclipse viewing.
Take care of your glasses and viewers
As long as your eclipse glasses or solar viewers comply with the ISO 12312-2 safety standard and are not damaged, they can be used indefinitely. There is no time limit on how long you can view the sun while wearing them. Store them at room temperature in an envelope or their original packaging to avoid scratches.
When cleaning your eclipse glasses, avoid using water, glass cleaner, baby wipes, or other wet wipes. Moisture can cause the cardboard frames to detach from the lenses. Instead, carefully wipe the lenses clean with a tissue or cloth.
Don’t miss out on this celestial spectacle
The upcoming total solar eclipse is a rare opportunity to witness a breathtaking natural phenomenon. By following these safety guidelines and using certified eclipse glasses or viewers, you can experience the awe-inspiring beauty of the eclipse without risking your eyesight. So mark your calendars, gather your viewing equipment, and get ready to be amazed by the wonders of the universe.
