Because of its extreme brightness, it is very dangerous to look at the Sun directly or through a telescope. Professional astronomers use tower telescopes to record the Sun’s activity. These are large telescopes with moving mirrors (heliostats) that reflect light down a long shaft to data-recording instruments on the ground.
Unlike all the other stars in the Universe, which are very, very, very far away, our Sun is relatively close to the Earth (roughly 150 million km). The Sun is also quite large (about 1.5 million km in diameter) which allows us to see its visible surface as a round disk (about half-a-degree in diameter). The Sun extends far beyond this visible surface, but to see this outer component requires special equipment, often operating at non-visible wavelengths.
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!
Wear sunscreen and stay in the shade when you can. Wear sunglasses on sunny days to protect your eyes from excessive UV. Never look directly 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.
Picture Credit : Google
