AUSTIN, Texas — The total solar eclipse is just around the corner, and millions of eyes will be pointed toward the sky to observe the celestial event. The next total eclipse in Central Texas won't happen again in this lifetime, so you'll want to make the most out of this one!
However, eye protection should be top of mind heading into Monday. If you think your pair of typical sunglasses will be enough to keep your eyes safe, think again. KVUE spoke with Dr. Kimberly Wampler, a local optometrist, about proper safety protocols to prevent irreversible eye damage when viewing and capturing memories during the eclipse.
"Any type of polarization, dark-tinted sunglasses, everyday sunglasses, it's just not enough protection to save your eyes from losing sight from viewing something so bright." Wampler said.
She also mentioned how important it is to not look through the viewfinder of cameras when taking photos or recording videos of the event.
"If you're using a regular, standard camera to take a video or film, please don't look at the eclipse through the viewfinder. Looking at the eclipse through the viewfinder is just as damaging as looking at it with the naked eye." she said.
Extreme light, like that created by the sun, can permanently damage photo receptors that reside in the back of the eye in a place called the macula. These photo receptors control central vision and determine colors. Light energy from the sun can create temporary or permanent damage to the receptors.
At this point, most people have heard about wearing certified eclipse glasses, but you can also use No. 14 welder's glasses to view the total solar eclipse.
If you don't wish to purchase any glasses or have difficulty finding a pair, you can always use a few simple household supplies to create a pinhole projector. This can be as simple as using a push pin to pierce a hole into a piece of cardboard paper and allowing the sun's light to shine through onto another piece and staring at the light cast onto the second piece of paper during the event.
Here's how to make a pinhole projector:
Wampler also mentioned the importance of young children using extra caution while viewing the eclipse since their eyes are still developing and don't have as much pigment to help protect from sunlight.
Keep your fingers crossed for decent viewing conditions and have a safe eclipse viewing on Monday!