Staying Healthy
How can I protect my eyes during a solar eclipse?
Ask the doctor
Q. A total solar eclipse is scheduled to cross North America on April 8. How can I view it safely?
A. You're smart to plan ahead, since viewing a solar eclipse — which happens when the moon passes between the sun and earth — may damage your eyesight if your eyes aren't protected. The light emitted from a solar eclipse isn't necessarily stronger than that from sunlight on an ordinary day, but we shouldn't gaze directly at the sun at any time.
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About the Author
Toni Golen, MD, Editor in Chief, Harvard Women's Health Watch; Editorial Advisory Board Member, Harvard Health Publishing; Contributor
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