Sve što trebate znati kako biste zaštitili oči od pomračenja sunca, prema jednom oftalmologu: "Uvijek je loše gledati u sunce"

On August 12, 2026, Spain will witness its first total solar eclipse in over a century. The event, which will last less than two minutes in regions where the Sun is completely obscured by the Moon, will be visible along a narrow path stretching from northwest to southeast across the Iberian Peninsula, reaching the Balearic Islands. In cities such as A Coruña, Oviedo, León, Bilbao, Zaragoza, Valencia, and La Palma, residents will experience a total eclipse. However, in southern parts of the country and in Barcelona, the eclipse will be partial due to the misalignment of the celestial bodies. The phenomenon is set to begin around 19:30 local time, with the maximum darkness occurring approximately one hour later, lasting just under two minutes. The eclipse has generated widespread interest among both the public and scientific communities. The National Institute of Geography has created a dedicated website to provide detailed information on when and how the eclipse can be viewed based on specific geographic locations within Spain. This resource aims to help observers plan their viewing experience safely and effectively. To ensure safety during the event, the Spanish government and the ONCE have launched an initiative called "Una vista única. Cuídala," offering free certified eclipse glasses through science museums and points of sale operated by the ONCE group. These glasses are essential to prevent potential eye damage caused by direct exposure to the Sun’s intense radiation. The National Astronomy Commission has issued guidelines for identifying safe eclipse glasses, emphasizing that they must be labeled with the certification "EN ISO 12312-2:2015." They should not be scratched or damaged, and if purchased within the European Union, they must bear an authentic CE marking rather than a printed or stamped label. Additionally, the glasses should include the manufacturer's name, usage instructions, warnings, and, if applicable, an expiration date. Dr. Nicolás Toledano Fernández, an ophthalmologist at HM Hospitals, warns that looking directly at the Sun, whether during an eclipse or otherwise, is harmful. He explains that the primary danger comes from ultraviolet radiation, which can cause photochemical damage to the retina, particularly affecting the macula, the part of the eye responsible for central vision. Symptoms of this damage may not appear immediately but can manifest hours or days after exposure, including the appearance of a dark spot in the field of vision known as a positive scotoma, distorted images, or twisted lines. Some cases may involve corneal damage similar to snow blindness, though this is less common. Despite preventive measures, recent studies indicate that injuries still occur during eclipses. A study following the 1999 eclipse identified 70 cases of visual loss within three months, with the majority showing signs of macular damage. Although some patients showed improvement after six months, not all regained complete vision. Similarly, after the 2017 eclipse in the United States, 27 individuals sought emergency care for vision problems, with six confirmed cases of solar retinopathy. While awareness campaigns seem to have reduced incidents, the risk remains significant. During the brief period of totality, when the Sun is entirely covered by the Moon, it is considered safe to look directly at the eclipse without protective eyewear. However, Dr. Toledano cautions against lingering too long, noting that even the slightest glimpse of sunlight, such as the first glimmer at the end of totality, requires immediate protection. This window of opportunity is very limited, and viewers must act quickly to avoid injury. Using optical instruments such as telescopes, binoculars, or cameras without proper solar filters poses an even greater risk. These devices intensify the Sun’s light, increasing the likelihood of retinal damage. Experts strongly advise against using them unless equipped with appropriate filters designed specifically for solar observation. In addition to the health risks associated with viewing the eclipse, there are practical considerations for those planning to capture the event with mobile phones or other electronic devices. Experts warn that prolonged exposure to the Sun’s rays could potentially damage the sensors of these gadgets. Therefore, it is crucial to follow recommended guidelines to protect both eyes and equipment during this rare astronomical occurrence. Authorities and organizations across Spain are working diligently to ensure that the public is well-informed and prepared for the eclipse. With the upcoming event being part of a series of eclipses scheduled for the next few years, Spain is poised to become a prime destination for astronomical tourism. The 2026 eclipse marks the beginning of what experts refer to as a "trio of eclipses," including another total eclipse in 2027 and an annular eclipse in 2028. Each of these events presents unique opportunities for observation and research, further highlighting the significance of the upcoming celestial spectacle.