Eye Safety During a Solar Eclipse

A solar eclipse will cross North America on April 8, 2024.

It is important to make sure you view the eclipse safely to prevent any significant damage to your eyes.

According to the American Academy of Opthalmology, “staring at the sun for even a short time without wearing the right eye protection can damage your retina permanently. It can even cause blindness, called solar retinopathy.”

The only safe way to look directly at the sun is through special-purpose solar filters. These solar filters are used in “eclipse glasses” or in hand-held solar viewers.

Keep in mind:

• Do NOT remove the solar filter while looking at the sun
• Never look at the uneclipsed sun through an unfiltered camera, telescope, binoculars, etc.
• Always read the directions that come with the solar viewers before using

To reach the full AAO article on Solar Eclipse Eye Safety, click here.