Observe the Sun Safely (Beta Version: 9.11.2.0)

Observe the Sun Safely

The sun is a mass of incandescent gas
A gigantic nuclear furnace
Where hydrogen is built into helium
At a temperature of millions of degrees

Yo ho, it's hot, the sun is not
A place where we could live
But here on earth there'd be no life
Without the light it gives

- They Might Be Giants,
"Why Does the Sun Shine?"

The Sun gives off different kinds of energy: heat, visible light and invisible light. One invisible light that comes to Earth is called ultraviolet light. We're lucky that the Earth’s atmosphere protects us from most of the Sun’s UV, but some of it gets through and it is this UV light that can cause sunburn and eye damage. So, take care and protect yourself from the Sun!

REMEMBER—Wear sunscreen and stay in the shade when you can. Wear sunglasses on sunny days to protect your eyes from excessive UV. NEVER look diectly at the Sun without the proper solar filters (NOT sunglasses)! Make a safe Sun-Earth Connection when you are outdoors.

If properly protected, there ARE ways to look at the Sun. We can project it onto paper or even look at it through a telescope with solar filters. Solar events such as eclipses or transits (another planet passing in front of the Sun) are striking phenomena you won't want to miss, but you must carefully follow safety procedures. Don't let the requisite warnings scare you away from witnessing natural spectacles! You can experience the Sun safely, but it is vital that you protect your eyes at all times with the proper solar filters. No matter what recommended technique you use, do not stare continuously at the Sun. Take breaks and give your eyes a rest! Do not use sunglasses: they don't offer your eyes sufficient protection. See the NASA Eclipse 2017 site Eye Safety During Eclipses for definitive advice on safe solar viewing!

Observe the Sun Safely

Links:

Meet Your Star: Viewing the Sun Safely