Millions of Americans caught glimpses of a once-in-a-lifetime solar eclipse Monday afternoon. While many wore protective glasses, some ignored safety guidance and watched with their bare eyes.
Staring directly at the sun during a solar eclipse or at any other time can lead to permanent eye damage. The eclipse is only safe to witness with the naked eye during totality, or the period of total darkness when the moon completely covers the sun.
That is why eye doctors emphasized the importance of wearing proper eclipse glasses during the event.
“What is the risk? If you look directly at the sun, your eye can basically sustain a sunburn,” said Dr. Cynthia Beauchamp, a pediatric ophthalmologist who works in Dallas-Fort Worth.
On April 8, 2024, a total solar eclipse was visible inside a band that crossed the continental United States and covered sections of North America, from Mexico to Canada. A solar eclipse happens when the Moon obscures the Sun by passing between Earth and the Sun.
Solar Eclipse Concern
Exposure to the hazardous radiation produced by total solar eclipses may result in irreversible eye injury or blindness.
Solar adclipse Reality
No, blindness cannot be caused by radiation from an eclipse, according to NASA. However, you could permanently harm your eyes. You will experience problems because the bright corona only produces electromagnetic radiation when the moon’s disc completely encloses the sun. The filter will be burned by the intense sun radiation, seriously injuring the eyes.
However, an eclipse can do injury to your eyes even if it is not in totality. Gazing upon the sun when it is partially veiled can cause damage to your retina.