Tips to see a solar eclipse with children safely

A solar eclipse is an astronomical phenomenon in which the moon is placed directly in front of the sun, either partially or completely. This phenomenon can only be seen from certain places on earth, and since the moon rotates in a slightly inclined orbit around our planet, this causes this event to

A solar eclipse is an astronomical phenomenon in which the moon is placed directly in front of the sun, either partially or completely. This phenomenon can only be seen from certain places on earth, and since the moon rotates in a slightly inclined orbit around our planet, this causes this event to be rare to see.

In spite of being a magnificent and very interesting phenomenon to teach children, it is necessary to take precautionsto see a solar eclipse with children safely, since they are much more sensitive to sunburn and if not There is adequate prevention you can get to damage your eyesight.

Danger of seeing a solar eclipse with children without preventive measures

The solar eclipse can damage the eyes, since the radiation from the sun is very intense and can affect the retina. This phenomenon is known as solar retinopathy, which can cause injuries and loss of visual acuity. In these cases the best treatment is prevention, since at present symptoms can be controlled, but in itself, the damage is irreparable.

How to see an eclipse of the sun with children without risks

In Guiainfantil.com we give you the best advice so that your children can appreciate this phenomenon that nature gives us, for sure.

1. Beware of inappropriate objects. Do not give children x-rays, burned films, negatives, smoked glasses, or CDs to see the eclipse through them, since they do not protect the eyes from ultraviolet rays.

2. Use specialized glasses. The use of sunglasses is insufficient, so it is not recommended that children look at the eclipse with them. In this case there are approved glasses or special filters to enjoy this phenomenon. Check the list that NASA has published for that purpose.

3. Measure the time of exposure to the eclipse. Even with adequate protection, it is advisable to watch the eclipse only for a couple of seconds.

4. Make projections. Making a projection on a white wall to look at the eclipse indirectly is a very good option. You can achieve this through a telescope or binoculars, but be careful! Do not forget that it is indirectly, you should never look directly through these optical devices.

5. Look at the shadows of the leaves of the trees. The holes that remain between the leaves of the trees work as a lens and through them the image of the eclipsed sun is projected. A different and original way to appreciate this phenomenon.

6. You must be aware of the children during the whole eclipse and if they should have any discomfort, you should go immediately to the ophthalmologist.