On August 21st a total solar eclipse will touch the U.S. mainland for the first time since 1979, following a path that crosses the country from Salem, Oregon to Charleston, South Carolina. Tens of millions of people who live within a 70-mile radius of its cross-country track will witness the eclipse in totality (the sun completely blocked by the moon) while millions of others outside of it will enjoy a partial eclipse.

THE ECLIPSE IS NOT TOTAL IN THE HUDSON VALLEY [CLICK HERE]. 
YOU MUST ALWAYS PROTECT YOUR EYES DURING ALL PHASES OF THE ECLIPSE.

Your eye doctor wants to reinforce the only safe way to look directly at the uneclipsed or partially eclipsed sun is through special-purpose solar filters or other ISO-certified filters, such as “eclipse glasses” or handheld solar viewers.

The American Optometric Association encourages ordering solar eclipse glasses in advance and recommends referring to the American Astronomical Society’s (AAS) site for a list of manufacturers.

To ensure you won’t miss the remarkable sight, we are sharing a few tips for safe viewing:

• Your eyes should always be protected by ISO-verifed viewing tools. Never look directly at the sun without special-purpose solar filters for eye protection, even briefly. Dark sunglasses, binoculars, cameras, and other optical devices do NOT offer sufficient protection. Visit eclipse.aas.org to access eclipse duration charts.
• Be aware of harmful solar exposure. If you stare at the sun without protection, you may experience damage to your retina (the tissue at the back of your eye) called “solar retinopathy.” This damage can occur without any sensation of pain, since the retina does not have pain receptors. The injury can be temporary or permanent.
• Visit your eye doctor. If you experience any problems with your eyes or vision after the eclipse, our office will be able to provide you with the eye care you need.

To access additional information and educational materials on the solar eclipse, visit aoa.org/2017eclipse.

More info can also be found at: Solar Eclipse and Your Eyes

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