Experts warn of eye damage risks during upcoming solar eclipse

As the moon passes between the sun and Earth on August 12, creating a solar eclipse over Europe, many are eager to witness the celestial event. However, experts caution that direct viewing can cause permanent retinal damage, a risk that can be mitigated with proper precautions.

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It can happen very, very quickly.

Catherine Fischer, who is involved in planning scientific observations of the sun with the Solar Orbiter at the European Space Agency, anticipates the eclipse as a "true astronomical event." She plans to use "regular eclipse glasses" with certified filters, emphasizing the importance of safety. Fischer aims not only to share her enthusiasm but also to raise awareness about the dangers of looking directly at the sun, which can cause damage very quickly and insidiously, as the retina lacks pain receptors.

Daniela Weiskopf, head of the optical radiation department at the German Federal Institute for Radiation Protection, echoes these warnings. She notes that even when the moon obscures a large part of the sun, the remaining radiation is potent enough to harm the retina. Weiskopf highlights that this particular eclipse poses an increased risk because it occurs at dusk. The sun's reduced brightness can trick the eye's natural protective reflex, and dilated pupils at twilight allow more radiation to reach the retina.

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It is insidious because the retina is very sensitive, but it has no pain receptors.

To safely observe the eclipse, specialized eclipse glasses with protective filters that allow only 0.001% of sunlight are essential. Standard sunglasses, welding goggles, or various films are inadequate. These specialized glasses are typically available at astronomical stores, select opticians, bookstores, and sometimes camera shops, though they may be sold out in many areas. Prices vary, starting around 99 cents per pair. Weiskopf advises choosing glasses that fully cover the eyes with wide temples to minimize scattered light, are marked for direct sun viewing, bear the CE mark, and meet the DIN EN ISO 12312-2:2015 standard. Importantly, the protective film must be free of scratches or damage. Old eclipse glasses from previous events, like the 1999 eclipse, should be discarded in favor of new ones.

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This removes the natural human protective reflex.

For those wishing to photograph the eclipse, using a suitable filter for smartphones or cameras is crucial to protect the sensitive camera sensor from solar radiation.

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Thus, the pupil is more dilated in the twilight, and more radiation reaches the retina.