A rare solar eclipse will be visible in parts of the United States on April 8, 2024. At UAMS Health, our experts in the UAMS Harvey and Bernice Jones Eye Institute provide the following information and tips:
For direct viewing:
- Use ISO 12312-2 filters, which are commonly known as eclipse glasses
- Never use telescopes or binoculars while using filters!
Don’t:
- Don’t look at the sun while squinting or wearing sunglasses
- Don’t wear 3D glasses while looking at the sun
- Don’t look through CDs, space blankets, balloons, food wrappers or pinholes
- Don’t use post-mydriatic glasses (glasses you get after getting your eyes dilated)
Do:
- Only use ISO 12312-2 filters, commonly known as eclipse glasses
- Keep your solar eclipse glasses on when looking at the sun, especially during a partial eclipse
- Look away from the sun before removing your solar glasses
- Keep your glasses pressed firmly against your face
Damage to the eye caused by looking directly at the sun with no protection or improper protection can be temporary or permanent
- Vision loss is painless.
- Vision loss can be instantaneous or take a few hours before the onset.
