Story Highlights
- A total solar eclipse will pass over North America on April 8, journeying across Mexico, the United States, and Canada.
- The eclipse is expected to reach totality along Mexico’s Pacific coast at approximately 11:07 a.m. PDT.
Understanding Solar Eclipses
The phenomenon when the moon passes between the sun and the earth, causing sunlight to be blocked and casting a shadow on the Earth’s surface is called a solar eclipse. When the moon completely covers the sun, revealing the sun’s outer atmosphere as a glowing ring, it is called a total solar eclipse. Partial solar eclipses occur when the moon only partially blocks the sun.
Risks to Eye Health
Observing a solar eclipse without proper safety measures can lead to “eclipse blindness” or retinal burns, causing temporary or permanent damage to the retina. It can also cause loss of central vision, distorted vision, and altered color perception.
Doctors’ Warnings
As the total solar eclipse approaches, eye doctors are issuing warnings about the potential risks of witnessing a solar eclipse. Directly viewing the sun during an eclipse can cause severe damage to the retina.
How to Watch Solar Eclipse Safely
If you want to enjoy watching the solar eclipse, it is important to keep eye safety in mind. During the total solar eclipse phase, use eclipse glasses or handheld solar viewers to protect your eyes before and after totality. Only during totality, when the sun’s bright face is entirely obscured, is it safe to view the eclipse without eye protection. Immediately resume eye protection once any part of the sun becomes visible.
Don’ts of Observing a Solar Eclipse
- Avoid risking eye health by refraining from using smartphones or camera viewfinders to directly view the sun.
- Never use unsafe filters, including sunglasses or unapproved optical devices, which can heighten the risk of eye damage.
- Using certified solar eclipse glasses meeting ISO 12312-2 standards is essential for safeguarding vision during a solar eclipse.
