Experts Warn of Potential Damage to Smartphones During Solar Eclipse: How to Safely Capture the Event

It’s well known that during the solar eclipse, without protective gear the sun can damage your eyes permanently. However, your cellphone camera might also be at risk.

According to experts, the phone sensor could be at a high risk of damage like any other image sensor if pointed directly at the sun. Aeronautics and Space agency, formerly known as X on Twitter, warned that the phone needs proper filters like any other camera to avoid damage.

The best practice is to hold a pair of ISO-certified eclipse glasses in front of your phone’s lenses when photographing the sun. This precaution is crucial in preventing any harm to your smartphone’s camera.

While using your phone during a solar eclipse, ensure you have protective ISO-certified filters. The American Optometric Association recommends using devices that meet the ISO 12312-2 international safety standard.

Smartphones are not designed for capturing the sun or moon due to their small sensors and lenses. NASA experts caution that pointing your phone camera directly at the sun can damage the sensor and result in overexposed photos.

Experts suggest that viewing the sun or eclipse through a cellphone screen is extremely dangerous, except during the totality phase. Dr. Geoff Bradford from West Virginia University highlights the risks associated with looking at the sun through a smartphone.

Dr. Christopher Starr from NewYork-Presbyterian and Weill Cornell Medicine emphasizes that there is no safe time to look at the sun without protection, even during a partial solar eclipse. The safety of solar viewers remains a top priority.

For safe eclipse viewing or photography, consider using livestreams, creating pinhole projectors, and utilizing mobile apps for information and simulations. These methods can enhance your experience while protecting your eyes and smartphone camera.

Experts recommend using special filters for partial eclipse photography and removing them during totality to capture the sun’s outer atmosphere. Proper gear and precautions are essential for photographing and observing a solar eclipse safely.