Eclipse Awareness and Eye Safety Introduction

As we anticipate the upcoming total solar eclipse next week on April 8, 2024, our team at California Oculoplastics and Retina is here to remind our community about the importance of protecting your eyes from potential retinal damage during this celestial event.

The Dangers of Direct Solar Observation

Solar eclipses are a magnificent natural phenomenon, but looking directly at the sun without proper protection can lead to serious eye injuries, including solar retinopathy. This condition can cause temporary or even permanent damage to the retina, the part of your eye responsible for capturing the images you see. Los Angeles is not within the “zone of totality” for this upcoming solar eclipse, so the sun will not be fully covered by the moon. Thus, the risk of retinal damage is higher if you are watching the solar eclipse in Los Angeles this year. 

Guidelines for Safe Eclipse Viewing

• Use Solar Viewing Glasses: Make sure they meet the ISO 12312-2 international safety standard. Regular sunglasses, even if they are very dark, are not safe for looking at the sun.
• Pinhole Projectors: These DIY projectors allow you to view the eclipse indirectly and are a safe, enjoyable way to witness the event without risking your eyesight.
• Optical Devices: If you plan to use cameras, phones, binoculars or a telescope, ensure they are equipped with solar filters designed specifically for this purpose. The intense solar rays can damage the glasses’ filter and endanger your eyes.
• Watch Online: Many websites and local news stations will be streaming the eclipse live. This is the safest way to experience the event without any risk to your eyes.

AAO Resources on Eclipse Eye Safety

For more information, please refer to the American Academy of Ophthalmology’s guidelines on solar eclipse eye safety with these following links:

• What to Expect on April 8
• 3 Ways to Safely Watch the Eclipse
• Where to Get Eclipse Glasses
• Video: How the Sun Can Burn Your Retina in Seconds
• Infographic: Eclipse Eye Safety

Our Commitment to Your Vision Health

Let’s ensure that our experience of the solar eclipse is not only memorable but also safe. Your vision is irreplaceable, and we at California Oculoplastics and Retina are here to help you protect it. If you have any questions about eye safety or experience discomfort after viewing the eclipse, we’re just a call away.

Stay safe and happy eclipse viewing!