Stay Safe and Protect Your Eyes: Tips for Watching the Upcoming Solar Eclipse with Proper Eyewear
The next total solar eclipse is just around the corner, set to take place on April 8 in the afternoon. This exciting phenomenon will be visible in many parts of Upstate New York, but it’s crucial to remember that watching it without the proper eyewear can be dangerous. Even when the sun is partially blocked by the moon, looking at it through regular glasses, an unfiltered camera, a telescope, binoculars, or any other optical device can cause damage to your eyes. The solar rays have the potential to harm the filter and injure your eyes. Therefore, it’s essential to wear specific solar eclipse filters or glasses to ensure your eyes are protected and to fully experience the eclipse.
According to the American Academy of Ophthalmology, it is crucial to wear glasses that meet the worldwide safety standard known as ISO 12312-2. This international safety standard was created to guarantee that solar eclipse viewers protect their eyes when looking directly at the sun. Regular sunglasses and ski goggles, including prescription ones, are not sufficient for this purpose. Dr. Robert Fechtner, an Ophthalmologist at SUNY Upstate, explains, “Although sunglasses are good at the beach, they aren’t strong enough to protect your eyes when looking directly at the sun.” Therefore, it’s important to invest in proper solar eclipse glasses that meet the ISO standard.
If you typically wear prescription glasses, you can keep them on and wear solar eclipse glasses over them for both visibility and protection. This ensures that your eyes are shielded from any potential harm. Without proper eye protection, you risk getting a burn in your eye and causing permanent damage to your retina.
It’s not just your eyes that need protection during a solar eclipse; your cameras also require special care. Regular sunglasses, phones, and cameras do not provide adequate protection for your eyes when capturing the moment. The American Academy of Ophthalmology advises using a specially designed filter for your camera to ensure your eyes are safe while taking pictures or videos of the eclipse in real-time.
If you still have solar eclipse glasses from the 2017 eclipse, don’t throw them away just yet. The American Astronomical Society states that modern eclipse glasses do not expire. However, before reusing old glasses, it’s important to check if they comply with the ISO standard, have no punctures, scratches, or tears, and ensure that the lens remains securely attached to the frames.
During the eclipse, it’s crucial to keep your solar eclipse glasses on at all times, except during totality. Totality refers to the moment when the sun is completely blocked by the moon for a minute or more. This is the only time when it is safe to remove your glasses and view the eclipse directly. NASA emphasizes the importance of keeping your glasses on throughout the event to protect your eyes from any potential harm.
When purchasing solar eclipse glasses online, it’s essential to ensure they are from reputable manufacturers. The American Astronomical Society warns against buying glasses without checking the standards, as some companies may sell counterfeit products. To be safe, you can refer to the AAS list of reputable vendors and purchase from one of them.
To test the safety of your solar eclipse glasses before April 8, put them on and observe the sun or something equally bright. If you can see ordinary brightness through the glasses or a handheld filter, and you’re unsure if the product is from a reliable vendor, it’s best not to use them. It’s advisable to obtain your eclipse glasses early, as they may become scarce closer to the event.
In conclusion, as the next total solar eclipse approaches, it’s crucial to prioritize eye safety by wearing proper eyewear. Regular glasses, cameras, and optical devices are not sufficient for protecting your eyes from the sun’s harmful rays. By investing in solar eclipse glasses that meet the ISO standard, you can ensure your eyes remain safe while enjoying the awe-inspiring phenomenon. Remember to keep your glasses on throughout the event, except during totality, and exercise caution when using cameras to capture the moment. With the right eyewear and precautions, you can fully experience the upcoming solar eclipse while safeguarding your vision.
