The solar eclipse is today — but don't take photos of it with your phone (2024)

I learned that my iPhone 15 Pro Max and the upcoming 2024 total solar eclipse do not mix. I stumbled upon BGR's article, which warned sky gazers about using their phones to take pictures of the imminent cosmic event.

If you're like me, you may be wondering "Why?" After all, who wouldn't want to snap a photo of such an awe-inspiring celestial occurrence?

As it turns out, taking a photo of the 2024 solar eclipse could damage your iPhone's camera hardware.

Why you shouldn't take a photo of the 2024 solar eclipse with your phone

In the same way that you shouldn't use a telescope or binoculars to gaze at the sun (you could melt your eyeballs off), you shouldn't use your phone's shooter — or any other poorly equipped camera — to take a photo of the solar eclipse.

BGR says that no smartphone is designed to handle the intense solar rays the sun emanates. "Using your camera or phone could cause the heat from the rays to become so concentrated that it could melt the lens inside," the tech outlet warned.

Days before the April 8 eclipse, NASA provided similar advice.

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There is a workaround in that you can purchase filters for your phone and camera.

But I spoke with Mashable's science editor Mark Kaufman, and he strongly recommends simply enjoying the event with approved solar glasses, as opposed to trying to capture the celestial spectacle with camera filters (unless you're an astrophotographer, of course). After all, you have the best optics tool on your face: your peepers.

It must be emphasized that it's imperative that your eyes are protected. NASA recommends getting "ISO 12312-2" grade solar eclipse glasses that filter harmful light. The American Astronomical Society (AAS) has a list of green-lighted sellers, including Rainbow Symphony, which sells these solar eclipse glasses.

The historic 2024 total solar eclipse is set to make its trajectory from Texas to Maine on April 8. Mashable's Elisha Sauers, our space reporter, suggested some useful 2024 solar eclipse calculators to help you determine whether you're in its path.