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Solar eclipse expert explains happens if you don't wear eye protection and if sunglasses are OK

Document Cited in Related
Vincent
Published date08 April 2024
Publication titleMyLondon (England)
The warning comes ahead of the partial solar eclipse set to occur in the UK at 7.52 pm on Monday April 8, with visibility from Northern Ireland, Scotland, most of Wales and cities including Liverpool, Leeds, Manchester and Plymouth

Stefano Pietrini, an eye health expert from Watches and Crystals, emphasised the potential for permanent eye damage if the eclipse is viewed directly without proper protection. He advised against relying on everyday sunglasses, which he said are not strong enough.

"It's a common misconception that wearing regular sunglasses will protect your eyes during a partial solar eclipse. However, this is not the case," Stefano explained to Wales Online.

"Regular sunglasses do not provide the appropriate protection from a solar eclipse, regardless of their UV protection rating or how dark the lenses are."

"If you're planning to view the partial eclipse directly, it is imperative that you purchase specialist eclipse glasses, or a hand held solar viewer, that complies with the ISO 12312-2 international standard.

"These glasses are extremely affordable and can easily be purchased online. It's crucial to ensure that any specialist glasses for viewing the eclipse are thoroughly checked before use.

"Check your specialist glasses for scratches, tears or general damage, as even the slightest scratch or tear will ruin the effectiveness of the glasses and result in eye...

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