What happens if you view a solar eclipse

Note: This web page does not constitute medical advice. Readers with medical questions should contact a qualified eye-care professional. Skip to main content. Read and follow any instructions printed on or packaged with the filter.

Always supervise children using solar filters. If you normally wear eyeglasses, keep them on. The moon causes the light of the sun to be blocked from reaching earth, casting a shadow on earth. A total solar eclipse is when the moon completely blocks the sun. A partial solar eclipse is when the moon only blocks part of the sun. This exposure to the light can cause damage or even destroy cells in the retina the back of the eye that transmit what you see to the brain.

This damage can be temporary or permanent and occurs with no pain. It can take a few hours to a few days after viewing the solar eclipse to realize the damage that has occurred.

If you notice symptoms after viewing a solar eclipse, seek treatment from an eye care professional. The only time that you can safely view a solar eclipse without special equipment is during a total solar eclipse. This is when the moon completely covers the sun. It is never safe to look at a partial solar eclipse without proper safety equipment or techniques. During the very brief time the sun is in total solar eclipse it is safe to look at it, but do so with caution.

Even during the total solar eclipse, the total eclipse may last only a short period of time, and if you are looking towards the sun as the moon moves away from blocking the sun, you might get a solar burn on your retina which can cause permanent damage to your eyes. Talk with your eye care professional to determine the best viewing option for you. It was only through separate eye exams later that both men learned they had permanently damaged their retinas. Material from The Washington Post was used in this report.

Boston Globe video. NASA also suggests you inspect your filter before putting it on, and discard it if it has any scratches or damages.

Write to Alana Abramson at Alana. Abramson time. By Alana Abramson. Related Stories. America Needs to Get Back to Facts. Already a print subscriber?