I accidentally looked at the sun very briefly. Have I damaged my eyes?
AUG 18, 2014
Question:
This morning I was bird watching with a spotting scope. I followed a flying bird with the scope, and briefly saw the sun through the scope. It was 7 am and the sun was red from dust and moisture. My eye does not have spots in it and it is clear even 6 hours later but it does hurt a bit around the outside. Can this have caused damage?
Answer:
A brief exposure should not cause permanent damage but this is not a recommended practice. Check with your ophthalmologist to be certain, as the damage may be too subtle for you to detect.