UV Rays Pose Sunburn Risk During Total Solar Eclipse
As the total solar eclipse approaches on Monday, experts warn that even during the brief window of totality, exposure to harmful UV rays can lead to sunburn.
The totality phase, where the sun is completely eclipsed by the moon, only lasts for a maximum of four minutes. Despite this short duration, the unblocked UV rays can still cause intense sunburn, according to Christin Burd, a molecular genetics professor at The Ohio State University.
Protect Your Skin with Sunscreen
Regardless of whether you are viewing the eclipse between clouds, wearing sunscreen is crucial as UV rays can penetrate through clouds and cause damage.
For those planning to witness the eclipse, wearing ISO-certified solar eclipse glasses to protect your eyes is essential, but don’t forget to safeguard your skin as well with sunscreen.
Precautionary Measures for Eclipse Watchers
For a safe and enjoyable eclipse viewing experience, in addition to sunscreen, experts recommend bringing:
- A pinhole camera
- A colander or straw hat to project the eclipse onto paper or cardboard
- Bug spray
- Snacks
- Binoculars (for pointing at paper)
- Sunglasses (not for looking at the eclipse)
- Solar eclipse glasses and solar filters
- Camera equipment for photos
- A notebook for observations
Remember, don’t let a sunburn ruin your solar eclipse experience.