Solar Eclipses and Eye Safety
MARCH 14, 2024: (reprint from the American Optometric Association)
Reference: https://www.aoa.org/healthy-eyes/caring-for-your-eyes/solar-eclipses?sso=y
Reference: https://science.nasa.gov/eclipses/future-eclipses/eclipse-2024/safety/
Eye safety should always be the number one priority when viewing a solar eclipse. The following information is being provided by the AOA and Hopewell Lambertville Eye: Hopewell Lambertville Eye. For more information on upcoming eclipses and essential eye safety see the following text.
Solar Eclipses
According to the National Aeronautical and Space Administration (NASA), an eclipse is an awe-inspiring celestial event that drastically changes the appearance of the two biggest objects we see in our sky: our Sun and Moon.
Looking directly at the sun during a solar eclipse is unsafe and can cause temporary or even permanent damage to your eyes. Before viewing this natural phenomenon, learn more about proper eye safety to keep your eyes healthy.
This composite image of eleven pictures shows the progression of a total solar eclipse over Madras, Oregon, on Aug. 21, 2017.NASA/Aubrey Gemignani
Annular Vs. Total Solar Eclipse
An annular solar eclipse happens when the Moon passes between the Sun and Earth while it is near its farthest point from Earth. Because the Moon is farther away from Earth, it appears smaller than the Sun and does not completely cover the star – creating a “ring of fire” effect in the sky. The most recent annular solar eclipse took place on October 14, 2023.
A total solar eclipse happens when the Moon passes between the Sun and Earth, completely blocking the face of the Sun. A total solar eclipse is the only type of solar eclipse where viewers can momentarily remove their eclipse glasses or viewers for a brief period of time when the Moon is completely blocking the Sun.
Total Solar Eclipse: April 8, 2024
A total solar eclipse will cross the United States passing over Texas, and traveling through Oklahoma, Arkansas, Missouri, Illinois, Kentucky, Indiana, Ohio, Pennsylvania, New York, Vermont, New Hampshire, and Maine.
It will be the last total solar eclipse visible from the contiguous United States until 2044! So, let’s get those peepers prepped for viewing.
Tips for viewing a total solar eclipse
Except during the brief total phase of a total solar eclipse, when the Moon completely blocks the Sun’s bright face, it’s not safe to look directly at the Sun without specialized eye protection for solar viewing.
- Use approved solar eclipse viewers. The only safe way to view a partially eclipsed sun is through special-purpose solar filters, such as " eclipse glasses" or viewers that meet international standard ISO 12312-2 for safe viewing. Sunglasses, smoked glass, unfiltered telescopes or magnifiers, and polarizing filters are unsafe. Inspect your eclipse glasses or handheld viewer before use – if torn, scratched, or otherwise damaged, discard the device.Protect those peepers and download our fun DIY template pinhole eclipse projector!
- Technique of the pros. Stand still and cover your eyes with your eclipse glasses or solar viewer before looking up. After viewing, turn away and remove your glasses or viewer — do not remove them while looking at the sun. If you normally wear eyeglasses, wear your eclipse glasses over them, or hold your handheld viewer in front of them.
- Totality awesome. Only within the path of totality—and once the moon completely blocks the sun—can eclipse viewers safely be removed to view totality. Once the sun begins reappearing, however, viewers must be replaced.
- Visit your doctor of optometry. If you should experience discomfort or vision problems following the eclipse, visit your local doctor of optometry for a comprehensive eye examination.
Keep in mind! Eclipse glasses are NOT regular sunglasses – regular sunglasses, no matter how dark, are not safe for viewing the sun.
Symptoms from Incorrect Viewing
It can take a few hours to a few days after viewing the solar eclipse to realize the damage that has occurred.
If you experience discomfort or vision problems following the eclipse, visit your local doctor of optometry for an in-person, comprehensive eye exam. Some common symptoms include:
- Loss of central vision,
- Distorted vision, and
- Altered color vision.
All symptoms should be treated as urgent until viewed by a doctor of optometry. If you suspect an eye or vision problem, don’t hesitate to visit a doctor of optometry – this is the best way to combat potentially severe complications, including vision loss.
To book an appointment with a doctor of optometry near you, Hopewell Lambertville Eye
For more information, visit the American Astronomical Society’s (AAS) website. To download fact sheets from the AAS, click here. For the Spanish version, click here.
BEST ECLIPSE VIEWING GLASSES
Updated March 2024: Recommended Eclipse Glasses
BOTTOM LINEPROSCONS
BEST OF THE BEST
MedOpticsSolar Eclipse GlassesCheck PriceEclipse Viewing for 10
If you need safety-approved eclipse viewing glasses for a family or group of friends, choose this colorful bundle.
Certified to meet strict CE and ISO safety standards. Durable lenses resist distortion and scratches. Frames have a sporty appearance. One size is suitable for most people. Pack of 10 glasses is great for groups.
The fit may be a bit tight for some individuals with larger heads.
BEST BANG FOR THE BUCK
SolunaSolar Eclipse GlassesCheck PriceProtective & Stylish
These are good-looking eclipse sunglasses that are perfect for two people to view the upcoming solar event.
Stylish frames with cool graphics. Made with silver polymer lenses that resist scratches and provide CE- and ISO-compliant protection. Made in the U.S.A. by a top manufacturer of solar eclipse glasses used during the 2017 eclipse.
Glasses are somewhat flimsy, and there are only two pairs per pack.
SolunaSolar Eclipse Glasses, 5 PackCheck PriceGood for Groups
Though somewhat expensive, it's a must-have pack of 10 that offers safety for small groups.
One-size-fits-most paper glasses that feature some colorful designs. Certified CE- and ISO-safe. Fairly comfortable for short-term use. Comes in a pack of 10. The lens is scratch-resistant, so you can rest assured they are always ready to use.
May fit some smaller individuals a bit loosely.
KessephSolar Eclipse GlassesCheck PriceMost Comprehensive
Ideal for groups, this option includes 10 pairs of glasses plus a bonus smartphone filter for capturing memories of the upcoming eclipse.
Pack of 10 CE- and ISO-certified eclipse viewing glasses with a smartphone photo filter. Glasses are reasonably durable with scratch-resistant lenses. Blue color is attractive and fun for kids and adults. Versatile size works for most wearers.
Some packages arrived damaged or missing a few pairs.
Lunt5-Pack Premium ISO and CE Certified Lunt Solar Eclipse GlassesCheck PriceSimple Yet Solid
These five eclipse viewing glasses offer features and a fit that will enhance your eclipse viewing experience.
Durable and attractive eclipse viewing glasses with colorful frames. Outstanding optical film is CE- and ISO-compliant for safety. Pack includes five pairs that offer a precise fit for most teens and adults.
They are selling out quickly, so it's hard to catch them in stock.
