Artificial eclipse

On August 12, 2026, a partial solar eclipse will be visible across parts of Europe, including Slovenia, with the moon covering approximately 90 percent of the sun’s diameter. However, experts have issued urgent warnings against viewing the eclipse without proper eye protection, emphasizing that unguarded observation can lead to permanent vision loss or even blindness. The warning comes from ophthalmologists at the Eye Clinic of the University Clinical Center Ljubljana, who stress the dangers of direct exposure to sunlight during the eclipse. The phenomenon occurs when the moon passes between the Earth and the Sun, casting its shadow over part of the Earth's surface. During this time, the sun’s light becomes significantly dimmed, which can create a false sense of safety among observers. This illusion leads many to look directly at the sun for longer periods than they would under normal conditions, increasing the risk of retinal damage. According to Dr. Darja Dobovšek Divjak, an ophthalmologist at the clinic, the human eye’s lens focuses sunlight onto the retina, particularly on the macula, a small area responsible for sharp central vision. Without adequate protection, this concentrated light can cause chemical burns similar to focusing sunlight through a magnifying glass onto paper, resulting in irreversible damage to the retina. Experts recommend using certified solar filters or specialized eclipse glasses designed specifically for such events. These glasses must meet international standards, such as ISO 12312-2, ensuring they block harmful ultraviolet and infrared radiation while allowing safe visual observation. Improvised solutions like sunglasses, smoked glass, or photographic film are ineffective and potentially dangerous, as they fail to provide sufficient protection against the sun’s intense rays. Children are especially vulnerable due to their clearer optical media and greater curiosity, often leading them to gaze at the sun for extended periods. For this reason, child-sized protective eyewear is crucial to ensure adequate shielding. In Spain, preparations are underway for the total solar eclipse, which will draw thousands of visitors. Villalibado, a once-abandoned village, has been chosen as one of the locations where NASA will broadcast the event live. The village was selected for its strategic location along the path of totality, offering an unobstructed view of the horizon and reliable communication infrastructure. Meanwhile, in Slovenia, the partial eclipse will begin around 7:25 PM local time, with peak coverage occurring shortly before sunset. Despite the limited visibility, the event has sparked interest among both astronomers and casual observers, prompting discussions about the importance of eye safety and the need for appropriate equipment. The economic impact of the eclipse is also being felt, with increased demand for accommodation and travel services in regions affected by the celestial event. Hotel prices in areas near the path of totality have risen significantly, reflecting heightened interest and logistical challenges associated with accommodating large numbers of tourists. As the date approaches, authorities and health professionals continue to emphasize the necessity of following strict safety guidelines to prevent long-term eye damage. They urge the public to prioritize certified protective gear and avoid any improvised methods of viewing the eclipse, underscoring the potential risks involved in unprotected observation.