"2024 Solar Eclipse: Viewing Tips and Path Maps for Safe Gazing"
Eye health experts warn that even a single, unprotected glance at a solar eclipse can lead to permanent vision loss due to damage to the retina caused by high-energy wavelengths of light. The best way to view the eclipse is with eclipse sunglasses that block out 99.999 percent of light, and it's important to ensure they are genuine. Indirect methods like using a pinhole or a kitchen colander can also be used if specialist eyewear is unavailable. Spectators in the "path of totality" should still use protection before and after the eclipse, as the danger persists before and after the eclipse's peak.