Cleveland, Ohio – As the upcoming solar eclipse draws near, experts are emphasizing the importance of protecting your eyes while viewing this extraordinary astronomical event. Dr. Nicole Bajic, a comprehensive ophthalmologist at the Cleveland Clinic Cole Eye Institute, stresses the significance of using proper eclipse glasses with ISO 12312-2 filters to safeguard the retina from photothermal injury.
NASA underscores the dangers of viewing the eclipse without adequate precautions, warning that watching the sun during the eclipse can lead to permanent eye damage known as solar retinopathy. By wearing eclipse glasses, viewers can safely observe the eclipse only when the moon completely obscures the sun during totality.
Chris Hartenstine from NASA’s Glenn Research Center advises that totality is the only moment when it is safe to view the eclipse directly with the naked eye. Totality, lasting around three-and-a-half to four minutes depending on the location, is a brief and spectacular period during the eclipse.
To ensure safe viewing of the eclipse, it is vital to wear certified eclipse glasses that provide the necessary protection for your eyes. When selecting eclipse glasses, be cautious of counterfeit products that may be circulating in the marketplace. The American Astronomical Society offers a list of approved solar viewers to help consumers avoid purchasing knockoff glasses.
For those unable to acquire proper eclipse glasses, making a pinhole projector is a safe alternative for observing the eclipse indirectly. This simple device allows sunlight to pass through a small hole, projecting an image of the sun onto a surface such as a piece of paper, wall, or cardboard.
In addition to pinhole projectors, viewers can also utilize household items like a colander to create a similar projection of the eclipse. By taking these precautions, individuals can enjoy the solar eclipse safely and witness this rare natural phenomenon without risking eye damage.