'Ring of Fire' Eclipse and Armageddon; Not End of the World but Eyesight Loss Instead?

People in whole African continent proves that it is not yet end of the world nor Armageddon after the "Ring of Fire" eclipse. The only risk is too much radiation from the sun affecting the eyes.

End of the world

As the whole world watches the annular solar eclipse or commonly known as ring of fire this Thursday, Sept.1, speculations including end of the world surfaced. This is nothing new in the wide history of world civilization. The Mayans and others consider any rare astronomical events either bringer of good luck or Armageddon.

The harm UV rays can do

Apparently - as everybody knows - the world still exists and the only damage done is too much UV rays. The primary affected part of the body are the eyes particularly the macula. This is situated in the back of the eye and is actually part of the retina.

Prevent Blindness says that two kinds of UV rays, classes A and B, affects central vision. The biggest threat is UV-B that can cause severe damage in the cornea and the lens. These part are the most utilized during the annular eclipse watching.

Protecting the eyes

It is better to wear sunglasses that can shield the eyes from UV rays to avoid potential damage. There is so-called 'eclipse sunglasses' that claim to screen 100 percent of UV rays. Also, wearers need not worry about other potentially harmful intense visible light and infrared. Those who opt for cheaper option can go for a regular welder's mask but at risk of lesser visibility.

At any rate, 2017 is the next solar eclipse to watch. The American continent will enjoy the total eclipse in Aug. 21 next year. This phenomenon will turn broad daylight into darkness for few minutes, even an hour. Again, it is not Armageddon yet but end of good eyesight if without proper protection instead.