3 common myths about solar eclipses | VERIFY [Video]

CHARLOTTE, N.C. — Millions of people will look toward the sky on April 8 for the total solar eclipse that’s being called the “great American eclipse.”

A four-minute period of complete darkness will occur along the path of totality from Texas to Ohio and into New England. An estimated 31.6 million people live in the path of totality this year, according to NASA. That compares to 12 million people in 2017, when the path of totality came directly through the Carolinas.

Since the dawn of time, many myths and legends have sprung up around solar eclipses. 

OUR SOURCES

MYTH

Total solar eclipses produce harmful rays that can cause blindness.

FALSE: While the eclipse itself can’t cause blindness if you are not in the path of totality and not wearing glasses, it can cause serious damage to your eyes. 

NASA said light from the eclipse at totality is a million …