A solar eclipse occurs when the Moon passes between Earth and the Sun. The moon thereby obscures the image of the Sun, either completely or partially. It is, therefore, important to remember that a solar eclipse may damage eyes. Looking at a solar eclipse is dangerous for the eyes.
This damage occurs because people underestimate the radiance of the sun, and look directly at it. Since the solar radiation strong enough to burn the retina even during an eclipse, one must be careful. While most people think that an eclipse blocks enough of its light for it to be safe, in reality, it is not. In fact, solar radiation remains as dangerous for the eyes despite the eclipse.
Damage to the Eyes
Looking at the sun without proper eye protection during a solar eclipse can result in retinal burns. This is also known as solar retinopathy. The direct exposure to the sun rays can destroy the sensitive neurons of the retina (the light sensitive portion at the back of the eye) . Consequently, there can be a loss of vision.
Symptoms of Eye Damage Due to Solar Eclipse
This damage can be temporary or permanent. Usually there is no pain. The damage may be noticed within a few hours. Sometimes the ill effects of the solar eclipse are not manifest immediately, and evolve over few days to weeks. It is, therefore, extremely important to be very careful during a solar eclipse.
Main symptoms include:
- Loss of central vision (solar retinopathy)
- Permanent blind spots
- Distorted vision
- Altered color vision
How to Protect Your Eyes from Damage During Solar Eclipse
1. Do not look directly at the sun.
2. In fact, homemade filters or sunglasses do not provide protection either.
3. If you want to observe the eclipse, Use special-purpose solar filters, such as eclipse glasses or handheld solar viewers, to view the eclipse
4. Do not look at the sun through a camera, telescope, binoculars or other optical device, and never use solar filters with these devices. In fact, concentrated solar rays may damage these, and can, therefore, cause serious eye injury
