How to watch the solar eclipse without harming your eyes

Sweden is set to witness an 80% partial solar eclipse on August 12, offering a significant celestial event for observers. Eye doctor Gauti Jóhannesson emphasizes the critical need for proper eye protection, warning that looking directly at the sun, even when partially obscured, can cause severe retinal burns and permanent vision loss.

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The sun emits strong radiation that can burn holes in the retina and lead to vision loss. This applies even if the sun is partially covered and the light appears weaker.

Jóhannesson strongly recommends using specialized solar eclipse glasses that meet the EN ISO 12312-2 standard. He clarifies that regular sunglasses, while useful for everyday sun protection, do not offer adequate defense against the intense radiation during an eclipse. For families, he advises that children must also use these certified glasses, and parents should closely monitor them to ensure they do not remove them during the event.

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One must have solar eclipse glasses of a specific standard (EN ISO 12312-2). They are designed to protect the eyes from dangerous rays.

There is no medical remedy for retinal damage caused by looking at the sun. "Unfortunately, there is nothing that can be done. If you have burned your retina, time will tell how serious the damage is and how much of your vision has been affected," Jóhannesson stated. The eclipse is expected to be visible across the entire country, with the peak coverage occurring around 80%.

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No, that is not enough protection. Sunglasses are good for sunny days but not for looking directly at the sun.