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Journalism of Courage
Remember how your grandma would tell you not to go out of the house during a solar eclipse? Grahan lag jata hai. Though the practice may be superstitious, it does hold a deeper meaning, one that becomes clear as the awe-inspiring spectacle of a total solar eclipse is all set to grace the North American continent on April 9.
Skywatchers are eager for a glimpse of the phenomenon, but amidst the excitement of witnessing this once-in-a-lifetime event, a crucial question arises: is it safe to look directly at the eclipse — with your naked eye, or even with an optical instrument like a telescope or a pair of binoculars?
Dr Samir Sud, co-founder and director of Sharp Sight Eye Hospitals, sheds light on the hidden dangers and offers safe alternatives for experiencing this celestial phenomenon.
While a solar eclipse dims the sun’s visible light, it doesn’t diminish the invisible threat – ultraviolet (UV) rays. These powerful rays, undetectable by the human eye, can wreak havoc on our vision, noted Dr Sud.
Normally, the discomfort from staring at the bright sun triggers our blink reflex, offering some protection. However, during an eclipse, this reflex weakens, allowing prolonged exposure, explained Dr Sud. The consequence? Solar retinopathy — a condition where UV rays burn retinal cells, causing permanent vision loss. Unlike skin, the retina cannot regenerate, making this damage irreversible, Dr Sud warned.
Looking at the eclipse through telescopes, binoculars, or even cameras might seem like a safe way to magnify the view. But NASA strongly advises against it. Dr Sud explained that these instruments act like magnifying glasses, concentrating the sun’s rays onto a smaller area of the retina, intensifying the damage and potentially causing immediate vision problems.
“Just like focusing sunlight with a magnifying glass can start a fire, focusing it on your retina can burn it,” he told indianexpress.com in an interaction.
Dr Sud said the key to safe eclipse viewing lies in specialised equipment – solar eclipse glasses. He explained that these glasses are specifically designed to block harmful UV and infrared radiation while allowing a safe glimpse of the eclipse.
They strike a perfect balance between quenching our curiosity about the cosmos and protecting our eyes from the sun’s immense power.
So, the next time a solar eclipse graces the night sky, remember: prioritise your safety. Invest in a pair of certified solar eclipse glasses and witness this celestial marvel responsibly. Your eyes will thank you for it.
