On April 8, 2024, Toronto will experience a near-total solar eclipse between 2:04 p.m. and 4:31 p.m. This is the result of the moon moving between the sun and Earth so they are perfectly in line.
Although a solar eclipse is an awe-inspiring event, they can pose a hazard to human health. They can cause harm to the eye if you look directly at the sun. This harm may include permanent damage or loss of sight.
“During a solar eclipse, the moon blocks out most of the sun’s rays. This gives the false impression that it is safe to look at the sun,” says Dr. Lawrence Weisbrod, Chief of Ophthalmology at Michael Garron Hospital (MGH). “However, the ultraviolet rays coming from around the moon are still damaging.”
Here are some ways you can protect your eyes during the upcoming near-total solar eclipse in Toronto while still enjoying this once-in-a-lifetime event.
Do not look directly at the sun
Looking directly at a solar eclipse can burn the macula, an area in the back of the eye that processes what you see directly in front of you. We use the macula for basic tasks, such as reading, watching TV and driving.
Damage to the macula can cause a type of blindness called solar retinopathy. Even a few seconds of direct eye contact with the sun or eclipse can cause solar retinopathy. The resulting injury can be temporary or permanent. Go to your nearest emergency department or call 9-1-1 immediately if you think you may be experiencing this.
Watch the solar eclipse online
Check out NASA's Exploratorium Livestream to safely watch the solar eclipse from the comfort of your own home!
Use a pinhole camera
A pinhole camera allows you to safely and easily watch a solar eclipse from anywhere. You can make a pinhole camera at home with white card stock, aluminum foil, tape, and a paper clip or pencil. During the solar eclipse, look only at the projected image created by the pinhole camera. Do not look directly at the sun.
Wear solar eclipse glasses
Regular sunglasses – even those with a dark tint – do not provide enough protection during a solar eclipse. If you want to watch the eclipse, wear special solar eclipse glasses. These glasses meet an international standard of ISO 12312-2, which means they protect your eyes from injury and provide a comfortable view. Make sure the glasses are not damaged or scratched. Learn more about where to get solar eclipse glasses in Toronto.
If you are watching the eclipse with other people, including children, make sure they also wear a pair of special solar eclipse glasses and emphasize the importance of keeping the glasses on during the eclipse. If you want to purchase solar eclipse glasses, buy them from a reputable source. Websites like Amazon and eBay may not carry the right products to ensure your protection.
See your healthcare provider or eye specialist if you have concerns
If you experience any problems with your eyes or vision after the eclipse, visit your family doctor, optometrist or ophthalmologist immediately. If you need urgent care and these options are not available to you, see other urgent care options in the community: tehn.ca/PlacesToGetCare.