Maine physics experts shed some light on what causes the darkness of the eclipse

(WABI) - Folks around Maine and around the world are preparing for April’s solar eclipse.

But, some may be asking, what exactly is a solar eclipse?

“Essentially, it’s a big shadow, when the sunlight casts a shadow, and if the shadow happens to fall over a part of the earth, and we get an eclipse. So, in that sense, they’re not necessarily that rare for the earth as a whole, but you have to have the timing just right,” said Matthew Badali, PhD, assistant teaching professor of physics at University of New England.

One key concern: what could happen to your eyes if you look up at the sun during the eclipse?

“There’s a problem called solar retinopathy, and even a fraction of a second glimpses, even periodically, apparently it accumulates and damages the eyes, and it’s something that you don’t see until maybe six hours, 48 hours later, and it is unfortunately, irreversible,” said James Veneska, PhD, physics professor at UNE.

Scientists and health experts advise everyone who plans to view the eclipse to make sure you have the appropriate eyewear and even filters for cameras and cell phone cameras.

Where you are and the timing of the eclipse can also be a factor.

“In the area of partial coverage, if you’re in total coverage where the sun is completely blocked out, you can stare at it while the moon is there. That’s really cool,” said Veneska.

But, if you’re not sure...

“Don’t take unnecessary risks. If it’s close to the end of complete totality, you should put back the glasses on, but during that interval, it’s fine. And at the beginning and the end of it, it’s similar to a partial eclipse,” added Badali.

They say after you take the necessary precautions, you can sit back and enjoy what for some folks could be a once in a lifetime opportunity.

“I went to the last eclipse that happened in Kentucky in 2017, and that was incredibly spiritual, I mean with it, when the sun is blocked by the moon. And you have everybody just a big sigh. And it was good to be with lots of other people and just to get their impression, and it’s quite remarkable,” said Veneska.