Lunar eclipse, or the Chandra Grahan, is a rare celestial event that occurs when the Earth passes directly between the Sun and the Moon, casting its shadow onto the lunar surface and making the Moon appear dim and sometimes red. The next total lunar eclipse, also called a blood moon, will occur on September 7-8, 2025.
During this time, many people question whether or not it is safe to watch the lunar eclipse with the naked eye. Does it harm our eyesight or vision? Should we take certain precautions? To answer all of these questions, OnlyMyHealth spoke to an expert.
Also Read: Lunar Eclipse 2025: Do's And Don'ts For Pregnant Women During Chandra Grahan
Is Watching Lunar Eclipse Harmful For Your Eyes?
Unlike a solar eclipse, which can seriously damage the eyes if viewed directly, a lunar eclipse poses no such risk. The moon does not produce its own light; it only reflects sunlight. During an eclipse, this already soft light becomes dimmer as the Earth’s shadow falls over the moon.
According to Dr Ashwin Santosh Shetty, Consultant – Ophthalmology, Aster CMI Hospital, Bengaluru, “the eye’s light-sensitive layer is never exposed to harmful levels of brightness during a lunar eclipse, so there is no danger of burns or permanent damage.”
Myths About Watching The Lunar Eclipse
Despite the science, myths around lunar eclipses continue to persist. In some traditions, people are advised not to look at the moon during an eclipse, fearing harmful “rays”. Dr Shetty clarifies that this is a cultural belief, not a biological reality. “The intensity of moonlight, even during an eclipse, is much lower than the light in an average room. There is no way it can damage the cornea, lens, or retina,” he explains.
Can Staring At The Moon For Long Periods Affect The Eyes?
Moonlight itself is not dangerous. However, staring at any object continuously for a long time, including the moon, can strain the eyes.
“When you fixate for too long, the ciliary muscles responsible for focus may become fatigued, leading to watery eyes, mild discomfort, or a dull ache,” says Dr Shetty. These effects are temporary and resolve with rest, and they do not cause structural damage to the eye.
Also Read: Lunar Eclipse 2020: Tips To Secure Your Health During This Celestial Event
The Safest Way To Watch Lunar Eclipse
Unlike solar eclipses, which require eclipse glasses or protective filters, a lunar eclipse can be viewed with the naked eye without any risk. For those who want a closer look, binoculars and telescopes can safely magnify the view. Dr Shetty emphasises, “From an eye health perspective, all ways of observing a lunar eclipse are 100% safe.”
Conclusion
A lunar eclipse is not just harmless; it’s a rare and beautiful event that can be enjoyed without fear. Myths suggesting otherwise have no scientific basis. Whether you watch it casually with your eyes or through a telescope for a closer experience, rest assured that the moon during an eclipse poses no threat to your vision.