why is looking at the eclipse different than looking at the sun
Why is looking at the eclipse different than looking at the sun?
Answer:
Looking at the sun during an eclipse is different from looking at the sun directly because of the potential damage to the eyes. During a solar eclipse, when the moon moves between the Earth and the sun, it can block most of the sun’s bright light, making it easier and safer to observe. However, the sun’s harmful ultraviolet and infrared rays can still reach the eyes without the intense brightness warning people to look away. This can cause serious damage to the retina, leading to a condition known as solar retinopathy.
The eyes’ natural aversion to bright light is diminished during an eclipse since the surrounding environment becomes dark. This results in people staring at the sun for longer periods without realizing the potential harm. On the other hand, looking at the sun on a regular day is discouraged due to its intense visible and invisible light that can damage the retina, causing both short-term discomfort and long-term harm.
It’s important to use specially-designed solar filters or indirectly view an eclipse using a pinhole projector to protect your eyes and enjoy the natural wonder of a solar eclipse safely.