Imagine a cosmic dance between the Sun, the Moon, and the Earth, culminating in a breathtaking celestial spectacle known as a solar eclipse. This phenomenon occurs when the Moon positions itself precisely between our planet and its radiant star, the Sun, casting a shadow that sweeps across the Earth's surface.



On April 8, 2024, mark your calendars for this mesmerizing event!

During a solar eclipse, the Moon partially or completely obscures the Sun, creating an otherworldly display of light and shadow. As the Moon's shadow traverses the Earth, a temporary twilight envelops the landscape, captivating observers with its eerie beauty.

However, while the allure of witnessing a solar eclipse is undeniable, it's crucial to recognize the potential risks associated with viewing this event. Staring directly at the Sun during an eclipse, even for a brief moment, can pose serious harm to your vision.

Solar Eclipse Safety

Expert advice from Dr. David Rogers, MD

What is a solar eclipse?

A solar eclipse is when the moon blocks any part of the sun from our view. 

Is it safe to view a solar eclipse?

With proper preparation, solar eclipses can be viewed safely by both children and adults. 

• Most importantly, you should never look directly at the sun without appropriate eye protection. 

• If you plan to look directly at the sun while viewing a solar eclipse, always use an approved filter. Only filters that meet the ISO 12312-2 standard are safe for directly viewing the sun. 

• Do not use sunglasses, Polaroid filters, certain welding glass, exposed color film, X-ray film or photographic neutral-density filters to view a solar eclipse. These filters dim the brightness of the sun, but they do not block the damaging infrared and ultraviolet light rays.

Can I ever remove my solar eclipse glasses during the event?

The only time that you can look at the sun without your solar eclipse glasses is during the “totality phase” of a total solar eclipse. The “totality phase” of the eclipse is when the moon completely covers the sun’s bright face, and it suddenly gets dark. In general, this phase lasts only a few minutes. Right when you see the sun start to reappear, immediately replace the solar eclipse glasses.

What is the danger of looking directly at the sun?

Staring directly at the sun can cause damage both to the front and back parts of your eye. Ultraviolet light directed onto the clear front surface of the eye (known as the cornea) and into the inside surface of the back of the eye (known as the retina) can cause damage. 

These harmful ultraviolet light rays can quickly burn sensitive eye tissues. Mild light exposure can lead to a sunburn on the cornea, called solar keratitis. A burn to the inside surface of the retina can cause more severe visual damage, called solar retinopathy. 

Listen to Dr. Dave on The PediaCast Audio Podcast

Dr David Rogers discusses the total solar eclipse visiting Ohio on April 8th with Dr. Mike!