It is not safe to look directly into the sun
Except during the brief total phase of a total solar eclipse, when the moon completely blocks the sun’s bright face, it is not safe to look directly at the sun without specialized eye protection for solar viewing. Viewing any part of the bright sun through a camera lens, binoculars, or a telescope without a special-purpose solar filter secured over the front of the optics will instantly cause severe eye injury.
Until totality, where the sun is briefly but completely covered by the moon, it is unsafe for onlookers to gaze at the eclipsing sun.
When watching the partial phases of the solar eclipse directly with your eyes, which happens before and after totality, you must look through safe solar viewing glasses (“eclipse glasses”) or a safe handheld solar viewer at all times. You can also use an indirect viewing method, such as a pinhole projector.
“Eclipse blindness” occurs when eyes are exposed to the sun and the light exposure damages or destroys cells in the retina. These retinal burns, also known as solar retinopathy, can be temporary or permanent with no associated pain. Sunglasses, unfiltered telescopes, and polarizing filters are not safe to use to view an eclipse.
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, visit the IOA’s doctor locator.
Learn more: https://science.nasa.gov/eclipses/safety/
