jbrown777 / Depositphotos.com
As we count down the days to Monday’s total solar eclipse you need to be aware of the dangers of viewing the astronomical marvel without proper eye protection. Tulane School of Medicine, Chair of Ophthalmology Dr. David Hinkle said while it’s extremely tempting to look directly at the eclipse…
“So exciting and such an interesting phenomenon but remember the eclipse only lasts a few minutes and the damage that you can suffer for your vision can last a lifetime,” said Hinkle.
And while Louisiana is not in the direct path of the total eclipse, what is visible Hinkle said you can still cause damage to your vision. He highly recommends certified eclipse glasses with the ISO 12312-2 filter and to beware of fake ones.
“If you can look around and see things with them and normally walk around in them, they are probably not safe to wear,” said Hinkle.
You can visit reputable sites to purchase glasses, but time is running out. American Astronomical Society.
While it is never advisable to look directly at the sun, Hinkle said to be especially mindful on Monday. For Louisiana, the eclipse will begin around 12:30, with the best totality view around 1:45, and the wonder will end by 3:10, in the Bayou State.
“There’s no time during this eclipse in Louisiana when it’s safe to remove your glasses and look at the sun. We’re not in the path of totality,” said Hinkle.
Hinkle said eye doctors tend to see an increase in patients after solar eclipses from individuals who’ve either burned their retina directly looking at the eclipse or suffering from other vision complications.
Even viewing the eclipse through your camera, cellphone or a reflection of it can cause eye damage. Hinkle recommends watching a live stream from NASA’s website.
Comments