Abuja – Scientists have warned Nigerians to
avoid looking directly at the sun in their
efforts to catch a glimpse of the solar eclipse
moving across the world on Friday.
Dr Aniefiok Udofia, a scientist and lecturer at
the University of Uyo, gave the advice during a
telephone interview in Abuja.
According to him, direct eye contact with the
eclipse could cause permanent damage to the
eye.
“It might be tempting to try to catch a glimpse,
but the light’s intensity can quickly cause a
permanent damage to your retinas, even if it is
partially blocked out.
“It could ultimately lead to blindness. Using a
telescope or a camera could be a worse idea
because the lenses focus the light further.
“It is advisable to use the eclipse glasses where
available; these are specifically made to block
dangerous wavelengths of light from the eyes,’’
Udofia said.
He called on parents to monitor their children
and wards and ensure that they enlighten them
and protect their eyes.
Vox, a research firm, reported on Yahoo
science that people across Europe, Northern
Africa and parts of Asia and the Middle East
would see a partial solar eclipse.
According to the report, total eclipses are very
rare, whereas the partial eclipses are much
more common because they occur throughout
the much wider penumbra region.
“Friday’s solar eclipse is like nothing we’ll see
for another 19 years.
“The vast majority of people will, however,
only be able to see a partial eclipse on Friday.’’
The solar eclipse occurs when the moon’s orbit
positions it directly between the Earth and the
sun, causing the moon to temporarily block:
out some of the sun’s light. (NAN) . Source - vanguardngr.com

smh

GEJ