On Monday, April 8, 2024, a total solar eclipse will trace a path across the continental United States, with Columbus falling into a narrow sliver of the country that will experience total darkness.
During the eclipse, for more than three minutes, the moon will completely block the sun.
While viewing this once-in-a-lifetime phenomenon will be spectacular, safety must remain a top priority. Did you know that looking directly at the sun during an eclipse, even for a second, can cause damage to your eyes that could result in permanent vision loss? According to the Indiana Optometric Association, you might not notice any issues until anywhere from a few hours to a few days after the damage has occurred.
The Indiana Department of Health recommends the following safety tips:
● NEVER look directly at the sun during the eclipse.
● Only use approved solar eclipse glasses to view the eclipse. Make sure you are buying from legitimate sources and be sure that glasses are approved by the American Astronomical Society.
● Regular sunglasses are not safe for viewing the partial phases of the total solar eclipse.
● Carefully inspect approved optical devices, and do not use them if you find scratches, defects or damage.
● If you normally wear glasses, keep them on while using solar eclipse glasses.
● Always supervise children using solar filters.
● Seek immediate professional help if you suspect any damage to your eyes from viewing the eclipse.
Because the eye's retina lacks pain nerves, you are less likely to notice pain or discomfort, and thus potential damage from staring at the eclipse. Symptoms of damage can anyway from 6 hours to up to 24 to become evident. You should visit an optometrist or ophthalmologist as soon as possible if you experience any of the following issues or symptoms after viewing an eclipse:
● Discomfort
● Loss of central vision
● Distorted vision
● Altered color vision
Eye safety is especially important for young children and individuals with limited understanding of the dangers of looking directly at the sun. Always supervise children during an eclipse to ensure they never look directly at the sun and that they properly wear protective eyewear during the eclipse.
