Are you ready for the solar eclipse? By now you’ve probably heard about the solar eclipse that will envelop the nation on August 21st. It’s the first total solar eclipse to touch the US mainland since 1979. The partial eclipse will last from two to three hours, and the total eclipse will last just under three minutes.Â
The next total solar eclipse wont happen in the US until April 8, 2024 – so you definitely don’t want to miss this one. But, it’s important to keep eye safety in mind and wear proper eye protection to avoid temporary or permanent eye damage from the sun.Both the American Academy of Ophthalmology (AAO) and Illinois Eye Center, offer the following tips for safe viewing:
- Never look at the sun without eye protection – even briefly!
- Purchase and wear solar eclipse glasses when viewing.
- The only safe way to look directly at the uneclipsed or partially eclipsed sun is through special purpose solar filters or other ISO-certified filets, like eclipse glasses or handheld solar viewers.
- Our Optical Boutiques have a limited number of eclipse viewing glasses available for purchase – just $2 a pair! You can also visit the American Astronomical Society’s website for a list of manufacturers
- Be aware of the risks of harmful solar exposure.
- If you choose to stare at the sun sans protection, you may experience temporary or permanent damage to your retina called “solar retinopathy.” The damage typically occurs without any pain, since the retina doesn’t have pain receptors. Visit your eye doctor if an incident of this nature occurs.
- Talk to your eye doctor for more information on how to safely view the eclipse.
- And if you experience any problems with your eyes or vision after the eclipse, call Illinois Eye Center at (309) 243-3875.
Have a safe and fun eclipse viewing!
