Viewing a solar eclipse safely: Protect your eyes

The upcoming solar eclipse on April 8th will be a spectacular celestial event visible in Texas, offering residents and visitors a rare opportunity to witness the moon passing between the Earth and the sun. In Texas, observers can view a partial solar eclipse, with the extent of visibility varying across different regions of the state. Ideal locations for viewing include cities such as the hill country of San Antonio, El Paso, Lubbock, Amarillo, and Midland, where the eclipse will be more prominent. However, safety precautions must be taken, and viewers should use certified solar viewing glasses or other proper eye protection to observe the eclipse safely. This event presents an exciting chance for Texans to experience the wonder of astronomy and the beauty of the cosmos firsthand. And for those who opted to get LASIK or vision correction this is a great opportunity to use that new vision!

Tips for safely viewing the eclipse in San Antonio:

• Use Solar Viewing Glasses: Invest in solar viewing glasses that meet the ISO 12312-2 international safety standard. Regular sunglasses are not safe for viewing an eclipse.
• Inspect Glasses for Damage: Before use, check your solar viewing glasses for any scratches, holes, or damage. Discard them if they’re compromised.
• Filter for Telescopes and Binoculars: If using telescopes or binoculars, make sure to attach solar filters to the lenses. Never look at the sun through these devices without proper filtration.
• Pinhole Projection: Create a pinhole projector to indirectly view the eclipse. Poke a small hole in a piece of cardboard and let the sunlight project onto a surface like another piece of cardboard or the ground.
• Watch for Animal Behavior: Animals may react strangely during an eclipse, thinking it’s dusk. Observing their behavior can be an interesting aspect of the event.
• Be Mindful of Your Eyes: Even with proper eye protection, avoid looking directly at the sun for an extended period to prevent eye strain.
• Keep Children Supervised: Ensure that children understand the importance of proper eye protection and supervise them during the event.
• Check Weather Conditions: Ensure clear skies for the best viewing experience. Cloud cover can obstruct the view of the eclipse.
• Plan Your Location: Find a suitable location with an unobstructed view of the sun. Parks or open areas away from tall buildings and trees are ideal.

Most importantly, enjoy the moment safely! Take time to appreciate this rare astronomical event while prioritizing your eye safety. If in doubt about safety measures, consult with experts or local astronomical societies for guidance. Remember, safety is paramount when viewing a solar eclipse. Following the tips above will help you enjoy the event without risking eye damage.

What can happen if I don’t use the proper eclipse glasses?

If you don’t use proper eclipse glasses while viewing a solar eclipse, you risk serious and permanent eye damage. Here are some potential consequences:

• Retinal Damage: Staring at the sun without proper eye protection, including during an eclipse, can cause solar retinopathy. This condition results from the sun’s intense light damaging the cells in the retina, the light-sensitive tissue at the back of the eye. Solar retinopathy can cause permanent vision loss or impairment.
• Photokeratitis: Exposure to the sun’s ultraviolet (UV) radiation without protection can lead to a condition called photokeratitis, sometimes referred to as “sunburn of the eye.” Symptoms include eye pain, redness, sensitivity to light, tearing, and a gritty sensation in the eyes. While photokeratitis is usually temporary and resolves within a few days, repeated exposure can increase the risk of long-term eye problems.
• Permanent Blindness: Directly viewing the sun, especially during an eclipse when the sun’s brightness may be more tolerable, can result in permanent blindness or severe vision impairment. The damage caused by looking at the sun without protection can be irreversible.
• Delayed Onset of Symptoms: It’s important to note that the effects of viewing the sun without proper eye protection may not be immediately apparent. Symptoms of eye damage may not manifest until hours or days later, by which time irreversible damage may have occurred.
• Failure to use proper eclipse glasses or other certified eye protection during a solar eclipse can result in severe and permanent eye damage, including retinal damage, photokeratitis, and even permanent blindness. It’s essential to prioritize eye safety and adhere to recommended viewing practices to avoid these risks.

Can I drive during the eclipse?

We do not recommend you driving during the eclipse. Pull off of the road and get a pair of the safety eclipse glasses and take in the sight!

Can I wear my prescription glasses with eclipse glasses?

Short answer is yes, you can wear eclipse glasses over your prescription eyewear to view a solar eclipse safely. However, it’s essential to ensure a proper fit and that both pairs of glasses sit securely on your face to prevent any gaps where harmful sunlight could enter. Additionally, make sure that the eclipse glasses are large enough to comfortably fit over your prescription glasses without obstructing your vision. Wearing both pairs of glasses simultaneously is uncomfortable or impractical so you may consider using alternative viewing methods such as a pinhole projector or indirect viewing through a projection screen or choose to get LASIK! LASIK is a great way to enjoy life uninhibited from glasses or contacts!

Is the eclipse safe for kids?

Yes, a solar eclipse can be a captivating experience for children, but it’s crucial to ensure their safety by using certified solar viewing glasses and supervising them closely. Explain the dangers of looking directly at the sun without proper eye protection, and consider alternative viewing methods if children are too young to understand the risks. Make it an educational experience by teaching them about astronomy while choosing a safe viewing location away from busy roads and make sure their eclipse glasses are secure.

How long does a total solar eclipse last?

Total solar eclipses range from 10 seconds to approximately 7.5 minutes in duration. Over a span of 12,000 years, from 4000 BCE to 8000 CE, the longest recorded total solar eclipse occurred on July 16, 2186, lasting 7 minutes and 29 seconds. It will traverse across Colombia, Venezuela, and Guyana. Conversely, the shortest total solar eclipse occurred on Feb. 3, 919 CE, lasting a mere 9 seconds.

When will the next solar eclipse be?

After 2024, the next total solar eclipse visible from any point in the contiguous United States will occur in 2044. Totality will only be visible from North Dakota and Montana.

So, whether you’re in the wide-open plains of West Texas, or the scenic landscapes of the Hill Country, grab your solar viewing glasses and get ready to witness the magic of the cosmos. Let the stars shine bright in the heart of Texas!