How to view the solar eclipse safely
On April 8, 2024, millions of people in the United States, Canada, and Mexico will have the chance to witness a total solar eclipse, a rare celestial event where the moon blocks out the sun for a few minutes.
While viewing an eclipse can be an amazing experience, it is important to take precautions to protect your eyes from harmful solar energy. According to the American Society of Retina Specialists (ASRS), wearing specialized eye protection is crucial for safe viewing.
Retina specialist Geoffrey G. Emerson, MD, PhD, FASRS, emphasizes the importance of viewing the eclipse safely to prevent vision damage. The eclipse will be partially visible across the US, with a path of totality covering a 115-mile-wide strip extending 8,000 miles.
Looking directly at the sun during an eclipse can cause solar retinopathy, damaging the delicate tissue in the eye responsible for vision. Special filters like ISO-certified eclipse glasses are recommended by NASA for safe viewing.
Using improper filters like sunglasses or camera lenses can result in permanent vision loss. If you experience any vision changes after viewing an eclipse, seek immediate medical attention from an eye physician.
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