Recommended Viewing of the Solar Eclipse: How to Protect Your Eyes
A solar eclipse is one of nature’s most spectacular sights, and people across the Canary Islands will be hoping for clear skies to witness this incredible event next week on the 12th August. While it is an unforgettable experience, it is also important to remember that looking directly at the Sun without proper protection can cause serious and permanent eye damage.
Never Look Directly at the Sun
Even when much of the Sun is covered by the Moon, harmful ultraviolet (UV) and infrared radiation can still damage your eyesight. Ordinary sunglasses, tinted lenses, smoked glass, CDs, DVDs, camera filters and homemade alternatives are not safe for viewing a solar eclipse.
The only safe way to look directly at the eclipse is by using certified solar eclipse glasses that meet recognised international safety standards.
Where Can You Buy Eclipse Glasses?
If you’re planning to watch the eclipse, it’s worth buying your glasses in advance. In many areas in Lanzarote, certified eclipse glasses are available from:
- Opticians
- Pharmacies
- Selected Aldi stores (while stocks last)
Always check that your eclipse glasses are in good condition before using them. If they are scratched, torn or damaged, replace them.
Safe Ways to Watch Without Looking Directly at the Sun
If you don’t have eclipse glasses, you can still enjoy the event by:
- Watching a live television or online broadcast.
- Using a pinhole projector to safely project the Sun’s image onto a surface.
- Viewing the eclipse through equipment fitted with approved solar filters.
Never look through binoculars, telescopes or camera lenses unless they have a certified solar filter fitted to the front. Wearing eclipse glasses alone is not enough protection when using magnifying equipment.
Children should always be supervised while viewing the eclipse to ensure they keep their eclipse glasses on whenever they are looking at the Sun.
Solar Eclipse Myths Debunked
❌ Myth: Sunglasses are safe to use.
Fact: Even the darkest sunglasses do not protect your eyes from the Sun’s harmful rays. Only certified solar eclipse glasses should be used.
❌ Myth: CDs, DVDs or smoked glass are safe.
Fact: CDs, DVDs, smoked glass, exposed camera film, X-ray film and other homemade filters do not provide adequate protection and can lead to permanent eye damage.
❌ Myth: You can only look for three minutes with eclipse glasses.
Fact: There is no official time limit when using certified, undamaged eclipse glasses correctly. You can enjoy the eclipse in repeated short intervals throughout the event.
❌ Myth: It’s safe to look directly at the eclipse when the Sun is mostly covered.
Fact: Even when 99% of the Sun is obscured, the remaining sunlight is still powerful enough to damage your eyes. Always wear certified eclipse glasses whenever any part of the Sun is visible.
❌ Myth: Looking at the Sun for just a second won’t hurt.
Fact: Even a brief glance at the Sun without proper eye protection can damage the retina. Because the retina has no pain receptors, you may not realise the damage has been done until your vision is affected.
Enjoy the Eclipse Safely
A solar eclipse is a rare opportunity to witness one of the most fascinating events in our solar system. Whether you’re watching from a beach, a viewpoint or your own garden, taking a few simple precautions will ensure the experience is both memorable and safe.
With certified eclipse glasses, a little preparation and an understanding of the common myths, you can enjoy this remarkable celestial event while protecting your eyesight for years to come.
